Tesla Reintroduces "Mad Max" Mode, Igniting Safety Fears Amid Speedy Returns

Tesla Reintroduces 'Mad Max' Full Self-Driving Mode Amid Safety Concerns SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla has reintroduced its "Mad Max" Full Self-Driving mode, a feature that allows vehicles to operate at higher speeds and make more frequent lane changes than the system's Hurry mode. The move comes despite ongoing safety concerns surrounding the company's Autopilot technology. According to reports, the Mad Max mode was first introduced in 2018 as part of Tesla's Autopilot system but has been reintroduced with little fanfare. "It has already been spotted rolling stop signs and driving more than 15 mph (24 kmh) over the speed limit," said a report from Electrek. The move has sparked concerns among safety experts, who point to the ongoing investigation by the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration into Tesla's Full Self-Driving System. The regulator opened the probe last week after receiving more than 50 reports of traffic safety violations in addition to numerous crashes. "This is a level of arrogance that does feel on brand for Tesla," said a spokesperson for the NHTSA, who wished to remain anonymous. "We are concerned about the potential risks associated with this feature and will be monitoring its performance closely." Tesla's decision to reintroduce Mad Max mode has been met with criticism from safety advocates around the world. "This is a reckless move that puts drivers and pedestrians at risk," said a spokesperson for the European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA). "We urge Tesla to reconsider its decision and prioritize road safety above all else." The reintroduction of Mad Max mode comes as Tesla faces increasing scrutiny over its Autopilot technology, which has been linked to several high-profile crashes in recent years. In 2020, a Tesla Model S crashed into a parked police car in California, killing two people, while in 2018, a Tesla Model X collided with a semi-truck on a Florida highway, killing the driver. Tesla's Full Self-Driving System has been at the center of controversy for months, with many experts questioning its safety and effectiveness. In February, the NHTSA opened an investigation into the system after receiving reports of traffic safety violations and crashes. The company has faced criticism from regulators and safety advocates around the world, who argue that its Autopilot technology is not yet ready for widespread use. "Tesla needs to take a step back and reassess its priorities," said a spokesperson for the International Transport Forum (ITF). "Road safety should be the top priority, not profit margins." As of now, it remains unclear how Tesla plans to address the concerns surrounding Mad Max mode or whether the company will make any changes to its Autopilot technology. The NHTSA has vowed to continue monitoring the situation and taking action if necessary. Tesla did not respond to requests for comment on this story. (Reuters) - Additional reporting by Reuters correspondents in Washington, D.C., Brussels, and Paris. *Reporting by Engadget.*