I'm assuming they raised it to reduce drag at speed

It is in the center of the tunnel, runs most of the length of the boat, it hangs lower than the rest of the tunnel. It is used to help the boat lift out of the water at lower speeds. When the tunnel packs enough air to carry the boat the center pod will be completely out of the water. They are great on small lakes and rivers. Since it hangs in the tunnel it occupies some of the space for air to cushion the landing in rougher conditions.

new here too lol