The document discusses improving the efficiency of internal combustion engines used in vehicles. It notes that while alternatives like electric vehicles show promise, improving gasoline engines could significantly reduce fossil fuel use in the near term. Technologies like better controlling air-fuel mixtures, ignition, and mechanical systems have the potential to improve efficiency from the current 20-25% to over 30% of the fuel's energy being converted to work. Hybrid vehicles currently reach 25-35% efficiency through technologies like shutting off the engine when stopped.