Traditional ignition systems used breaker points and a coil to generate the high voltage needed for sparking. Electronic ignition systems replaced the breaker points with electronic components like transistors or integrated circuits. This provided several advantages:
* More consistent spark: Electronic systems produce a more reliable and stronger spark than older mechanical systems, leading to better combustion and improved engine performance.
* Longer life: Electronic systems don't suffer from the wear and tear of mechanical points, requiring less maintenance.
* Improved fuel efficiency: The stronger, more consistent spark can lead to better combustion, leading to slight improvements in fuel economy.
* Easier starting: A stronger spark can make cold starts easier.
So, the spark plug itself remains the same basic design (though the design of the plugs themselves has evolved over time independently of the ignition system). It's the *ignition system* that's electronic, and that system delivers the spark to the plug to ignite the air/fuel mixture in the engine's cylinder.
