I used to think I knew what that vent was for. But after further disassembly of the vehicle in the trunk area when I was putting in my Engnier kit I found that the air is sucked in from behind the back seat, through the battery, and then out the back of the car in a vent behind the tail-lights. But at the point where the squirrel-cage fan is located on the left side of the car, there is also a small hose which breaks off and goes to the vent on the outside of the car. So I was left scratching my head as to its purpose.
I have felt hot air exhausted from the battery after doing some hill climb tests on a summer day. Photos? Bob Wilson
In addition to battery function: Cabin ventilation. Like on a Super Beetle C-pillar, perhaps? Allows "flow-thru" movement of cabin air if all windows are up? My guess.
