Federal Regulators Investigate Tesla’s Reckless ‘Mad Max’ Mode

UPDATE: Federal regulators are now investigating Tesla’s controversial new “Mad Max” mode, which reportedly allows vehicles to exceed speed limits recklessly. This development comes amid rising concerns about Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system and its implications for public safety.

Earlier this month, Tesla rolled out a firmware update introducing two new driving modes: “Sloth” and “Mad Max.” While Sloth focuses on cautious driving, Mad Max appears to encourage high-speed maneuvers that some owners claim ignore speed limits altogether. This alarming feature has caught the attention of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which is actively gathering information on the potential dangers posed by this mode.

The urgency of this investigation is heightened by recent legal troubles for Tesla, including a $400 million wrongful death lawsuit stemming from a tragic incident where a Tesla vehicle operating in Autopilot mode allegedly ran through a stop sign at 62 miles per hour. The collision claimed the life of one individual and left another severely injured.

The NHTSA has already opened multiple inquiries into Tesla’s FSD due to numerous reports of vehicles disregarding traffic signals and drifting into oncoming traffic. A spokesperson for the agency stated, “We are in contact with the manufacturer to gather additional information regarding the Mad Max mode.” They also reminded the public that the “human behind the wheel is fully responsible” for any accidents, emphasizing the need for driver accountability.

Critics, including attorney Brett Schreiber, who represented the plaintiff in the wrongful death case, have voiced strong concerns over Tesla’s decision-making. Schreiber accused the company of “deliberately programming cars to exceed speed limits and drive aggressively,” prioritizing sales and aesthetics over safety.

The implications of Tesla’s latest updates extend beyond legal ramifications; they raise critical questions about the responsibilities of automakers in ensuring public safety. As the NHTSA investigates, the urgency for clarity on these driving modes is paramount.

Tesla, led by CEO Elon Musk, faces mounting scrutiny as health and safety concerns intertwine with innovation in the automotive industry. The company’s push for advanced automated driving technology must now confront the reality of ensuring that such features do not compromise the safety of drivers and pedestrians alike.

As developments unfold, the automotive world watches closely. The next steps for Tesla and the NHTSA could set important precedents for the future of self-driving technology. Stay tuned for updates as this story continues to develop.