Until a more efficient, more economical, and more dependable automobile power plant has been proved, the hydrocarbon reciprocating engine will be with us. On this premise the author pursues possible improvements in present ignition systems and reviews what has been done in ignition systems and how spark plug design has accommodated to modern engine designs, from the compact car type to the high powered V-8. Significant in these developments is the approach toward stratified charge engines, a new concept of fuel ignition that offers impressive fuel economy.
