It sounds like a sort of direct-drive internal combustion to electrical generation, requiring far fewer moving parts.
Yep and still subject to the laws of thermodynamics.
Carnot efficiency rules still apply, unless it operates at very high temps and pressures, it will be less than 50% efficient like all the other IC engines.
That’s why its described as a “new take” on internal combustion engines.
From the article:
“Aquarius is the latest challenger to the hegemony of the internal combustion engine”
‘hegemony of the internal combustion engine’???
Reporters are such Drama Queens! As soon as someone develops a more fuel efficient engine that is as reliable as the conventional IC engine AND hits the ever-changing EPA regulations then auto makers, small aircraft & marine engine manufacturers, lawnmowers, generator sets..... will flock to it.