Tesla "Mad Max" mode accused of enabling reckless automated driving
Tesla's "Mad Max" mode for Full Self-Driving software is accused of enabling vehicles to exceed speed limits and perform aggressive maneuvers, reportedly reaching up to 85 mph on highways with lower posted limits. The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration opened an investigation after reports of safety violations and accidents, raising concerns about regulatory oversight of autonomous driving features.
What happened
The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened an investigation into Tesla's "Mad Max" setting, which is part of the company's Full Self-Driving (FSD) software after reports of safety violations, accidents, and injuries.
Mad Max allegedly allows vehicles to perform more assertive maneuvers including closer following distances, aggressive lane changes, and exceeding posted speed limits. Social media posts and user videos show Teslas reaching speeds up to 85 mph on highways with much lower limits, including a driver who posted video of his car going 85 mph on a highway where the legal maximum is 65 mph.
Reported impact
Users report concerns that this could increase collision risks, endanger other road users, and normalise unsafe driving practices, potentially leading to accidents involving Tesla vehicles operating in this mode.
For Tesla owners, Mad Max mode risks substantial fines, penalties, and higher chances of crashes, while setting a precedent that undermines basic road safety expectations. Other road users face dangers from unpredictable, high-speed vehicles operated by aggressive AI.
Index analysis
The situation raises questions about the autonomous vehicle industry's self-regulation and whether profit-driven feature development is outpacing safety considerations.
Critics argue that Tesla put development resources into the feature with limited regulatory oversight and minimal safety constraints, with unclear communication about driver responsibility and system limitations despite public assurances that drivers must remain attentive.
Governance controls
The incident highlights the need for urgent regulatory action and improved accountability from automakers regarding the rollout of assertive automated driving features.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.