Microsoft's retired (garage inventor?) Bill Gates III files for patent of an engine technology combining electric generation & internal combustion. Patent pending, #20090091138, utilitizes a normally oscillatting piston that is also a permanent magnet/generating coil that creates a current with the windings imbedded in the cylinder and/or connecting rod. Two versions, opposed & free piston.
(Bonks forehead!)
An additional technology using plasma injectors (Scotty, More power!) that gives reliable & precise ignition for possible future/multi fuel combustion front and complete fuel utilization for clean emissions. Prototypes are being tested and the study of wide ranging practical applications.
Bill Gates Patents Plasma Injector, for Your Car - Tom's Hardware