Federal Regulators Investigate Tesla’s New ‘Mad Max’ Driving Mode

UPDATE: Federal regulators have launched an urgent investigation into Tesla’s controversial new driving mode, dubbed “Mad Max,” amid serious safety concerns. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is examining whether this mode enables Tesla vehicles to ignore speed limits, potentially endangering lives on the road.

Earlier this month, Tesla introduced a firmware update for its Full Self-Driving (FSD) system, which includes the reckless “Mad Max” mode alongside a cautious “Sloth” mode. Reports from Tesla owners indicate that “Mad Max” allows cars to drive aggressively, raising alarms among safety advocates and regulators alike.

The investigation comes on the heels of a disastrous legal ruling against Tesla, where the company was ordered to pay $400 million in a wrongful death lawsuit. This lawsuit involved a tragic incident in California, where a Tesla operating in Autopilot mode reportedly ran a stop sign at 62 miles per hour, leading to the death of one pedestrian and severe injuries to another.

The NHTSA, which recently opened inquiries into Tesla’s FSD capabilities due to numerous reports of the system ignoring stop signs and veering into oncoming traffic, is now focused on gathering additional information about the newly introduced “Mad Max” mode. Authorities confirm they are in contact with Tesla to clarify the operational parameters of this mode.

Critics, including attorney Brett Schreiber, who represented the victims in the wrongful death case, have accused Tesla of “deliberately programming cars to exceed speed limits and drive aggressively.” Schreiber emphasized that Tesla seems to prioritize aesthetic appeal over public safety, highlighting the dangerous implications of this mode.

In an official statement, the NHTSA reiterated that, despite the advanced driving features, the “human behind the wheel is fully responsible” for the vehicle’s operation. This critical reminder underscores the potential risks associated with Tesla’s self-driving technology, especially when paired with modes that encourage reckless driving.

As the investigation unfolds, drivers and Tesla owners are left wondering about the implications of these findings. With safety on the line, the NHTSA’s findings could lead to significant changes in how Tesla’s self-driving technologies are regulated and implemented.

WHAT’S NEXT: The NHTSA will continue its inquiry and is expected to release findings in the coming weeks. Tesla and its CEO, Elon Musk, will undoubtedly face intense scrutiny as they navigate the fallout from this investigation. Consumers are urged to stay informed and prioritize safety as developments unfold.

This urgent situation raises crucial questions about the future of autonomous driving technologies and the responsibilities that come with them. Stay tuned for updates as we follow this breaking story closely.