Abstract: An internal combustion engine ignition device is provided for increasing the thermal efficiency of an internal combustion engine by increasing the spark length within the combustion chamber, wherein the spark can extend the width of the combustion chamber. The ignition device includes an ignition device housing to which a laser source is coupled. The laser source generates a laser beam capable of ionizing a fuel and/or an oxygen-containing gas used for combustion of the fuel in a combustion chamber. An electrical spark generator having a cathode electrode is coupled to the ignition device housing. The spark generator is configured for generating an electrical spark that emanates from the cathode within the combustion chamber and extends through the ionized fuel and/or ionized oxygen-containing gas, which may extend through the expanse of the combustion chamber, to a ground electrode within the combustion chamber to provide a more efficient and rapid fuel combustion within the combustion chamber.