I didn't know that either but then we have stuff we keep down inside there with a cargo organizer so we'd have to remove all of it first. But good to know and will mention to my husband. After getting our small back window vandalized to gain viewing access of our cargo area, we have stopped keeping the parcel shelf up for the most part so that area would be totally exposed without the cover on it. Good idea if you are bringing home a tall plant for example and can use the recessed area and want to keep the lid handy when you're done.
I'm guessing that's so that people who have the rear jump seats can store the cover after they pull up the seats to use.