Owners also covered by eight-year roadside assistance program

American electric car maker Tesla has announced an eight-year new car warranty for Australian customers this week, along with eight years of roadside assistance.

The company's announcement stipulates all new vehicles are covered for eight years (96 months) or 160,000km, whichever comes first, from the time of purchase.

Owners are covered for all parts requiring repair or replacement within those periods, complimenting the existing eight-year and unlimited-kilometre cover for battery and drive units.

That means Tesla is the only car manufacturer in Australia to offer a warranty period spanning eight years or more – beating out Kia's seven-year program – however the Korean brand still offers an infinite kilometre limit, unlike Tesla.

Eight years of roadside assistance is also included as part of the deal, "allowing for support no matter where the owner is across Australia", including flat tyre support.