You could do some of that type of timing with a rotary valve 2 cycle ( best option probably with diesel or liquid nat gas)


I worked at doing a 2 rotary valve per cylinder with overlapping discs--needed to be 2 cycle because couldn't spare space/weight for 4 cycle 2-1 valve/crank---


electronics are only good at controlling spark timing and electronic fuel injection----the physical power it would take to drive a valve train (x 16 or 32 valves) would require electrical devices(read motors) of not only several hp but upwards of 5000 rpm
and then when you do get the valve lift and velocity to make the hp you want, valve bounce and fly off the lobe after top lift point become virtually uncontrollable.


With the size/weight of todays vehicles and loads/speeds driven(raced) it relly comes down to engine external deminsions that fits between the fenders with the accessories needed(intake/exhaust system,starter,clutch,etc)


and that's if we stay internal combustion----if you want to go with external combustion (steam) or turbine power(jet) it broaches a different area and I also done some of that----------