The days of the humble spark plug could be numbered, if the findings of a research project carried out by Scientists at Liverpool University and engineers at Ford prove correct. They believe they have developed a method of fuel ignition more efficient and more reliable than plugs, based on high-tech laser beams.

Ford believes we may see lasers replacing traditional spark plugs in top end models within the next five years. Project leader Tom Shenton said: "We are running engines with the system every day in our laboratory.” He points out that lasers can be focused and split into multiple beams to give multiple ignition points. He says, “This can really improve the performance of the engine when it is cold, the time when around 80% of exhaust emissions are produced and the engine is at its least efficient.” He adds, “The laser also produces more stable combustion so you need to put less fuel into the cylinder.”