Abstract: This invention provides a strategy and system for an hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) 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.