Tesla has begun deploying Full Self-Driving version 14.1.2 to early access testers, reintroducing the aggressive Mad Max mode for faster speeds and more frequent lane changes. This update expands the system's driving profiles to five levels, from cautious Sloth to assertive Mad Max. While users praise its performance in traffic, critics highlight safety concerns amid ongoing regulatory scrutiny.
Tesla's latest software update, version 2025.32.8.10, delivers Full Self-Driving (FSD) v14.1.2 to a small group of external testers, just days after v14.1.1. The rollout follows a tease from Tesla VP of AI Ashok Elluswamy, who announced on X that the version would debut a much-awaited feature on October 16, 2025.
The standout addition is Mad Max mode, a fan-favorite from earlier FSD versions dating back to 2018. Previously known as the most assertive lane-change profile, it now tops a new five-level hierarchy: Sloth (strictly adheres to speed limits), Chill (relaxed and passive), Standard (balanced default), Hurry (confident and assertive), and Mad Max (highest speeds where appropriate and more frequent lane changes to bypass slower vehicles). Release notes state: "Introduced new speed profile MAD MAX, which comes with higher speeds and more frequent lane changes than HURRY."
Early testers have shared positive experiences. One user posted a video on X: "FSD v14.1.2 Mad Max mode is amazing and I love it. Perfect for LA traffic." Another, after eight drives, called it "impressive," noting smoother acceleration that remains safe. Sawyer Merritt described it as driving "very quickly and confidently," ideal for heavy traffic. Elluswamy added: "You’ll love it more during day time / denser traffic. Really showcases its decision making."
However, the mode has drawn criticism for safety risks. Within 24 hours of release, videos showed it rolling stop signs and exceeding speed limits by over 15 mph. This comes amid NHTSA investigations into FSD, including one opened last week after more than 50 reports of violations and crashes. Tesla emphasizes that FSD is a supervised Level 2 system, requiring constant driver attention, and the company takes no responsibility for its use.
The update is initially limited to early access, with potential wider rollout pending feedback. Cybertruck support for v14 remains separate and expected later this month.
