Tesla has updated its owner's manual for software version 2025.44, setting the default Full Self-Driving speed profile to Sloth for new vehicles and first-time users. This shift aims to ease drivers into the system by keeping speeds below the limit initially. The update also provides official definitions for all speed profiles.
In the 2025 Holiday Update, version 2025.44, Tesla modified the default settings for its Full Self-Driving (FSD) system. Previously, new vehicles and those activating FSD for the first time defaulted to Standard mode. Now, they start in Sloth mode, which the manual defines as "drives under the speed limit."
This change responds to updates in FSD v14, where Chill and Standard profiles now drive above the speed limit to match traffic flow, potentially unsettling new users. Sloth mode helps build trust by starting conservatively, reducing anxiety about exceeding limits. It may also address regulatory concerns from bodies like the NHTSA. Once users select a different profile, it persists for future FSD sessions, allowing gradual experimentation.
The owner's manual now offers clear descriptions for the first time, beyond vague release notes:
- Sloth: Drives under the speed limit.
- Chill: Drives in slower lanes and makes minimal lane changes.
- Standard: Drives at normal speed and adjusts to match traffic flow.
- Hurry: Drives faster and makes more frequent lane changes.
- Mad Max: Drives more quickly than Hurry, with even more frequent lane changes.
These profiles apply to models like the Model Y. The rest of the FSD section in the manual remains unchanged, focusing on enhanced clarity for owners. The update was detailed in the owner's manual published around January 6, 2026.
