US Agency Investigates Tesla Over Controversial “Mad Max” Driver-Assist Mode in 2025
- What Is Tesla’s “Mad Max” Mode?
- Why Is NHTSA Stepping In?
- How Has Tesla Responded?
- Expert Reactions: Safety vs. Innovation
- What’s Next for Tesla and NHTSA?
- FAQ: Tesla’s “Mad Max” Mode Investigation
Summary The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is probing Tesla’s “Mad Max” driver-assistance feature after reports of erratic behavior. Named after the dystopian film franchise, this mode allegedly pushes the limits of autonomous driving—raising safety and regulatory concerns. Here’s what we know so far, including expert takes and Tesla’s response. --- ###
What Is Tesla’s “Mad Max” Mode?
First spotted in Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) beta software, “Mad Max” mode reportedly enables aggressive lane changes, tight following distances, and rapid acceleration—mirroring the chaotic driving style of thefilms. While some users praise its efficiency, critics argue it compromises safety. “It’s like letting a stunt driver take the wheel,” quipped one industry analyst.
Data fromshows Tesla’s stock dipped 2.3% after NHTSA’s inquiry went public, though it rebounded slightly by midday. Meanwhile, forums like Reddit buzz with debates: Is this innovation or recklessness?
--- ###Why Is NHTSA Stepping In?
The agency flagged 17 incidents since March 2025 where “Mad Max” allegedly triggered near-misses or abrupt maneuvers. NHTSA’s letter to Tesla demands clarity on how the mode aligns with federal safety standards. “Autopilot shouldn’t mimic post-apocalyptic driving,” a spokesperson remarked dryly.
Historically, Tesla’s FSD has faced scrutiny—recall the 2023 recall over phantom braking? But “Mad Max” adds fuel to the fire. BTCC’s market analyst notes, “Regulatory pushback could slow Tesla’s autonomy ambitions, impacting investor sentiment.”
--- ###How Has Tesla Responded?
Elon Musk tweeted, “Mad Max is opt-in and clearly labeled. Don’t like it? Don’t use it.” The company asserts the feature includes safeguards, like requiring driver attention. Yet, NHTSA argues labels aren’t enough—especially when viral videos show Teslas “dodging traffic like a video game.”
Fun fact: Tesla’s 2025 Q3 earnings report revealed FSD subscriptions grew 40% year-over-year, suggesting demand for bold features remains strong. But at what cost?
--- ###Expert Reactions: Safety vs. Innovation
“This is a regulatory gray zone,” admits Dr. Lisa Cheng, an autonomous systems researcher. “Current laws don’t account for AI-driven aggression.” Meanwhile, BTCC’s team highlights parallels in crypto trading: “Like leverage, high-risk tools need clearer warnings.”
Not everyone’s worried. A Tesla owner in Texas told us, “Mad Max saves me 15 minutes on my commute. Just stay alert—it’s not a nap button.”
--- ###What’s Next for Tesla and NHTSA?
NHTSA’s probe could lead to recalls, fines, or stricter rules. Tesla might tweak the software—perhaps a “Polite Mode” toggle? For now, the saga underscores the tension between cutting-edge tech and public safety.
Data sourced from NHTSA filings, TradingView, and Tesla’s Q3 2025 report.
--- ###FAQ: Tesla’s “Mad Max” Mode Investigation
Is “Mad Max” mode illegal?
Not yet—but NHTSA’s investigation could change that if deemed non-compliant with safety standards.
Can I disable “Mad Max”?
Yes. Tesla drivers must manually enable it in FSD settings.
Has Tesla faced similar scrutiny before?
Absolutely. From Autopilot crashes to “rolling stop” controversies, regulators keep Tesla on their radar.
