The Eduard PE set for this kit includes a couple control panels that flank the driver's hatch. Through all my resources and hunting on the net, I have never seen these. Are these in use in this version tank, an earlier/later version, or are they a figment of Eduard PE's imagination?

Unsure of what is included in the PE set, but did you check out the photos at my M1A1 album? There is a fairly comprehensive photo spread of the driver's compartment in there.