this invention provides a strategy and system for an hybrid electric vehicle that is not equipped with a hydraulic torque converter wherein a generator motor is utilized to maintain engine rotational velocity during up - shifting of the vehicle transmission in situations where the throttle of the engine is released . this invention can reduce undesirable torque reversals during up - shifting of the vehicle transmission in such situations where the throttle of the engine is released . a controller is adapted to control the generator is supplied with data output by detectors that monitor the rotational velocity of said engine and the gear ratio of the transmission . the controller is programmed to command the generator to maintain the rotational velocity of said engine above a preselected threshold during up - shifting of the transmission .