BREAKING: Federal regulators have launched an urgent investigation into Tesla’s controversial new driving mode, dubbed “Mad Max,” amid safety concerns that it could lead to reckless driving. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is looking into reports that this mode allows Tesla vehicles to ignore speed limits, raising alarms about public safety.
Earlier this month, Tesla introduced a firmware update for its Full Self-Driving (FSD) system which includes two driving styles: “Sloth,” which drives cautiously, and “Mad Max,” which has been criticized for its aggressive driving behavior. Reports from some Tesla owners indicate that the Mad Max mode may be disregarding speed limits entirely.
This investigation is particularly significant in light of a recent wrongful death lawsuit that Tesla lost, which cost the company hundreds of millions of dollars. The lawsuit involved a Tesla operating in Autopilot mode that allegedly ran a stop sign at a staggering 62 miles per hour, resulting in the tragic death of one person and severe injuries to another couple stargazing by the roadside.
The NHTSA has confirmed it is in contact with Tesla to gather more information about the Mad Max mode. This comes as the agency continues to investigate Tesla’s FSD system, which has been linked to numerous incidents of vehicles blowing through stop signs and drifting into oncoming traffic.
“The human behind the wheel is fully responsible,”
the NHTSA reminded the public, emphasizing the legal implications of using such driving modes.
Critics are raising red flags regarding Tesla’s intentions. Attorney Brett Schreiber, representing the family involved in the wrongful death case, claims that Tesla is “deliberately programming cars to exceed speed limits and drive aggressively.” He argues that the company prioritizes “aesthetics and sales over safety,” a serious accusation that could have profound implications for Tesla’s reputation.
As federal scrutiny intensifies, the question remains: how will Tesla respond to these mounting concerns? With the public’s safety at stake, the NHTSA’s findings could lead to significant repercussions for the electric vehicle giant.
Stay tuned for updates as this investigation unfolds. The implications of the Mad Max mode could change the landscape of autonomous driving and impact countless Tesla owners nationwide.
