Found an interested episode from the classic Top Gear series where they discuss a new prototype Merritt Unthrottled Spark Ignition Engine. Below is a link to the episode from Top Gear:

Skip to 17:23

and here is a link to MUSI Engines LTD:
MUSI ENGINES LTD

 

Interesting article TRIARII. Unfortunately the auto industry are very fickle and not given to change unless it's forced upon them or they see a good return in $$$$$ hence no real innovations as we still mostly use the internal combustion engine BUT electric is on the march more by government pressures (and I believe nothing to do with eco more to do with tax revenue .............. cynic ) and the huge improvements in battery technology linked to brushless electric motors. I don't expect to see the internal combustion engine being usurped by electric power in my lifetime though.

See my posting about Richard Hatfield and his electric motorcycle which is very quick and trick.