NHTSA Investigates Tesla’s New “Mad Max” Driving Mode
407Tesla has introduced a new driving mode called “Mad Max” in a recent software update, and it’s drawing the attention of federal regulators. This mode is designed to make the car accelerate faster and weave through traffic more aggressively. It’s meant to get you to your destination quicker, but safety concerns are now coming into focus.
What is “Mad Max” Mode?
The “Mad Max” mode isn’t entirely new. Tesla tested a similar feature back in 2018 under its Autopilot system. Back then, the company decided not to release it widely after many people raised safety concerns. Now, Tesla has brought it back in a new form, allowing drivers to push their cars more aggressively.
Tesla describes the mode as driving “through traffic at an incredible pace, all while still being super smooth.” They say it makes your car behave like a sports car, perfect for those running late. This has sparked worries because it encourages faster, less cautious driving. Some drivers have reported that their Teslas, when in this mode, speed and swerve unexpectedly, raising safety alarms.
Regulators Step In
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has started looking into Tesla’s new mode. Earlier this month, NHTSA opened a preliminary investigation after numerous complaints. Drivers reported that their Teslas ran stop signs or crossed into oncoming traffic while using FSD, Tesla’s full self-driving system.
Now, according to Reuters, NHTSA is asking Tesla for more details about “Mad Max” mode. The agency clarified that the person behind the wheel is responsible for obeying traffic laws. Still, regulators are concerned about Tesla programming their cars to drive more aggressively than usual.
Brett Schreiber, a lawyer whose firm won a wrongful death lawsuit against Tesla, criticized the new mode. He claims Tesla is prioritizing style and sales over safety. Schreiber says that Tesla is deliberately programming cars to go faster and behave more aggressively, which could put everyone on the road at risk. He urges regulators to step in and prevent this feature from being widely adopted in its current form.
What’s Next for Tesla and Regulators?
Tesla has not yet responded publicly to the investigation. But the move by NHTSA shows growing concern about how automakers are handling advanced driving features. As Tesla continues to develop and roll out new modes, safety groups and regulators want to make sure these features don’t lead to more accidents.
This situation highlights the ongoing debate about the safety of aggressive driving modes in electric vehicles with advanced driver-assist systems. While Tesla promotes “Mad Max” as a fun, high-performance feature, critics worry about the risks. The coming weeks will likely see more discussions about how to regulate these kinds of features and ensure drivers stay safe on the roads.
In the meantime, drivers should remember that even with advanced systems, they are always responsible for how they operate their vehicles. Safety experts advise sticking to traffic laws and avoiding aggressive driving modes until regulators give the green light.
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