a method of distributing a torque demand in a hybrid electric vehicle having an internal combustion engine 200 and an electric motor 202 is provided . in hybrid operation , the motor 202 initially starts the vehicle . when the vehicle desired power demand reaches a first vehicle 27 . a method as described in claim 26 , wherein said third predefined percentage of accelerator pedal travel position is 0 %. operational parameter , a controller 214 switches the torque demand to the engine 200 . an accelerator pedal 220 has a position sensor 222 which determines a non - fixed pedal 220 first position during transition between the motor 202 and engine 200 . the accelerator pedal 220 also has a preset second position wherein a maximum of engine 200 torque is requested . the controller 214 , cognizant of the accelerator pedal 220 first and second positions , linearly scales the accelerator pedal 220 to provide a uniform torque - responsive accelerator pedal .