Tesla's ‘Mad Max' driver assistance mode sparks probe by feds after cars seen operating at higher speeds

Core Viewpoint - The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating Tesla's new "Mad Max" driver assistance mode, which reportedly allows vehicles to operate at higher speeds than posted limits, raising concerns about traffic safety violations and crashes [1][2][3]. Group 1: Investigation Details - NHTSA is seeking information from Tesla regarding the "Mad Max" mode and has opened an investigation into 2.9 million Tesla vehicles equipped with the Full Self-Driving (FSD) system due to numerous reports of traffic-safety violations and crashes [1][2][6]. - The investigation includes reviewing 58 reports of traffic safety violations associated with FSD, which involve 14 crashes and 23 injuries [2][3]. - NHTSA has identified incidents where Tesla vehicles with FSD engaged proceeded through red traffic signals, resulting in crashes with other vehicles [3]. Group 2: Tesla's Response and Features - Tesla has not provided immediate comments on the investigation but has previously described the "Mad Max" mode as enabling aggressive driving behavior, likening it to a sports car experience [3][4]. - The FSD system, which requires driver supervision and intervention, is positioned by Tesla as capable of driving almost anywhere with minimal driver input, although it does not make the vehicle fully autonomous [3][6].