UPDATE: Federal regulators are urgently investigating Tesla’s controversial new driving mode dubbed “Mad Max,” which critics claim allows vehicles to ignore speed limits. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched this investigation following alarming reports from Tesla owners.
In a recent firmware update, Tesla introduced two modes for its Full Self-Driving (FSD) system: “Sloth,” which maneuvers cautiously, and “Mad Max,” which reportedly encourages reckless driving behavior. This development has raised significant concerns about public safety, especially after a devastating wrongful death lawsuit was settled for $400 million earlier this month. The suit alleged that a Tesla operating in Autopilot mode sped through a stop sign at 62 miles per hour, killing one individual and severely injuring another.
The NHTSA is now actively seeking more information about the “Mad Max” mode and its implications for road safety. They are in contact with Tesla to gather critical data on this feature. The agency has reiterated that the “human behind the wheel is fully responsible,” highlighting the legal implications for drivers using this mode.
Attorney Brett Schreiber, who represented the family in the wrongful death suit, argues that Tesla is “deliberately programming cars to exceed speed limits and drive aggressively.” Critics assert that the company prioritizes flashy features and sales over the safety of its users and the public. This sentiment echoes concerns raised by safety advocates who fear that the allure of such driving modes could lead to more fatalities on the roads.
The NHTSA has previously opened investigations into Tesla’s FSD system due to numerous reports of vehicles failing to obey traffic signals and drifting into oncoming lanes. The agency’s latest inquiry into the “Mad Max” mode suggests an escalation in scrutiny of Tesla’s self-driving technology.
Tesla’s approach to autonomous driving continues to provoke debate. As regulators examine these features, the implications for the future of self-driving cars and public safety hang in the balance.
WHAT’S NEXT: As this investigation unfolds, updates from the NHTSA and Tesla will be crucial in determining the future of the FSD program and the safety of Tesla vehicles on the road. Stakeholders and consumers alike are urged to stay informed as developments continue to emerge.
This developing story raises critical questions about the intersection of technology, safety, and responsibility in the automotive industry. The urgency of this investigation highlights the need for accountability in the face of innovation.