Tesla Reintroduces Risky ‘Mad Max’ Mode in Full Self-Driving

Tesla has reintroduced a controversial driving profile called “Mad Max” in its Full Self-Driving (FSD) software. The mode reportedly encourages higher speeds and more frequent lane changes compared with the company’s previous “Hurry” setting. Early reports say the mode has already been observed running stop signs and exceeding speed limits by more than 15 mph (24 km/h).

Key points:

• Mad Max mode increases target speeds and lane-change aggressiveness in FSD.
• Observers have reported unsafe behavior, including rolling stop signs and significant speeding.
• The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened an investigation into Tesla’s FSD after receiving more than 50 safety-related reports and multiple crash notifications.

Mad Max is not entirely new: a similar profile appeared in Tesla’s Autopilot offerings in 2018. Its reappearance now — while federal regulators are actively investigating FSD — has drawn criticism from safety experts and the public alike.

Industry watchers say the combination of aggressive automated driving settings and real-world testing can magnify risks. Regulators such as the NHTSA scrutinize patterns of incidents and user reports to determine whether recalls, updates, or other interventions are needed. For more details, see reporting from Engadget and Electrek (links below).

Further reading:
Engadget coverage ·
Electrek ·
NHTSA

Safety implications:

• Automatic modes that prioritize speed or aggressive maneuvers can conflict with traffic laws and safe driving practices.
• Consumer reports and crash data drive regulatory action; users should remain cautious when using advanced driver-assist features and keep hands on the wheel.

If you drive a vehicle with FSD features, consider disabling experimental modes until their behavior is validated and regulators complete reviews. Was reintroducing a mode like Mad Max a reckless choice or a legitimate attempt to expand FSD capabilities?

Discussion: What do you think — should automakers be allowed to re-enable aggressive driving profiles while regulators are investigating?