The internal combustion engine will be required as a bridge-technology in the upcoming decades to achieve a significant reduction in local emissions in the mobility, and logistics sector. Alternative fuel technologies will present new mechanical engineering challenges, including increasing efficiency and reducing mechanical losses. Textured surfaces with appropriate manufacturing parameters can enhance lubrication, and reduce friction in sliding and rolling contacts, e.g., journal bearings, or the piston ring -cylinder subsystem. This paper gives an overview of 80 scientific works related to laser surface technologies, with an emphasis on surface texturing for friction reduction from the viewpoint of engine development. The most common texture types, further directions, and general challenges are highlighted in the summary.