Tesla's 'Mad Max' Mode Under NHTSA Scrutiny
- Mike Seuss
- 14 hours ago
- 2 min read
Tesla's aggressive "Mad Max" driving mode, recently introduced for its Full Self-Driving (Supervised) system, has attracted the attention of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The agency is seeking more information about the "Speed Profile" feature, which offers a more assertive driving experience compared to previous settings.
Key Takeaways
NHTSA has requested additional details regarding Tesla's "Mad Max" driving mode.
The "Mad Max" mode is designed for more aggressive driving with higher speeds and more frequent lane changes.
Tesla emphasizes that drivers remain fully responsible for operating the vehicle safely and adhering to traffic laws.
'Mad Max' Mode Explained
Tesla rolled out the "Mad Max" Speed Profile with Full Self-Driving version 14.1.2. Its release notes clearly stated its purpose: "Introduced new speed profile MAD MAX, which comes with higher speeds and more frequent lane changes than Hurry." This mode aims to cater to drivers who prefer a more dynamic and responsive driving style.
Initial testing and user feedback suggest that "Mad Max" lives up to its name, exhibiting aggressive behavior, higher speeds, and frequent lane changes, often mirroring challenging real-world traffic patterns. It has been observed to be one of the quicker vehicles on the road during normal highway driving and effective in navigating dense, rush-hour traffic.
Regulatory Oversight
While Tesla owners have generally expressed satisfaction with the "Mad Max" mode's performance, the NHTSA has initiated contact with Tesla to gather further information. The agency reiterated that "The human behind the wheel is fully responsible for driving the vehicle and complying with all traffic safety laws." This statement underscores the ongoing emphasis on driver accountability, even with advanced driver-assistance systems.
Driver Choice and Safety
It is important to note that "Mad Max" is just one of several Speed Profiles available to Tesla drivers. The company offers other modes, such as "Sloth" and "Standard," which are significantly more conservative and cater to drivers who prefer a less aggressive driving experience. This allows drivers to select a profile that best suits their comfort level and the driving conditions.
