The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has demanded detailed information from Tesla regarding its new Full Self-Driving (FSD) feature known as “Mad Max” mode, which allegedly enables vehicles to drive more aggressively and even exceed speed limits.
Part of Broader Safety Investigation
The request comes as part of an ongoing federal investigation into potential safety violations involving Tesla’s autonomous driving systems. Regulators are examining how the FSD software performs under real-world traffic conditions and whether its behavior may contribute to unsafe driving situations.
What Is “Mad Max” Mode?
According to reports, “Mad Max” mode is designed to reduce hesitation during lane changes and respond more assertively to other vehicles on the road. While these features may appeal to drivers seeking smoother and faster navigation, regulators fear they could increase accident risks by promoting overly aggressive maneuvers.
NHTSA Seeks Technical Documentation
The NHTSA has asked Tesla to provide comprehensive documentation detailing the mode’s capabilities, safety safeguards, and compliance with federal traffic laws. The agency’s inquiry will determine whether the feature aligns with existing vehicle automation standards or if it poses potential safety hazards to the public.
Tesla’s Response and Expert Concerns
Tesla has not issued an official statement in response to the inquiry. However, the company has previously emphasized that its FSD system remains in beta and requires active driver supervision at all times. Safety experts, meanwhile, have warned that mimicking assertive or aggressive human driving behaviors through automation could undermine road safety.
Mounting Regulatory Pressure
This latest investigation adds to mounting regulatory scrutiny surrounding Tesla’s autonomous driving technology. As the U.S. government increases oversight of self-driving systems, questions persist about how automakers can balance innovation with safety, particularly when public roads serve as testing grounds for evolving AI-driven features.
Balancing Innovation and Accountability
While Tesla continues to push the boundaries of vehicle automation, the controversy over “Mad Max” mode underscores the complex intersection of technology, regulation, and ethics. The outcome of the NHTSA’s review could influence future policies on how assertive self-driving behavior should be regulated, shaping the next phase of autonomous vehicle development.
