Abstract: A starting apparatus for an engine has a plurality of cylinders and an output shaft. The apparatus includes a power supply, an inverter having a switching element, a motor generator, an ECU, A crank angle sensor. The motor generator is coupled to the output shaft and connected to the power supply through the inverter. The ECU energizes the motor generator by controlling the inverter when the engine is started. The ECU causes ignition to occur in a specific cylinder that contains air-fuel mixture and is in an expansion stroke in an engine stopping state. The crank angle sensor indirectly detects a rotational speed of the motor generator. After the ignition caused, the ECU prohibits the motor generator from being energized until the rotational speed detected reaches or exceeds a predetermined value. As a result, the apparatus curbs an excessive increase in the temperature of a switching element.

Abstract: A hill-holding arrangement for an electrically driven vehicle includes a vehicle with a "gas pedal" which generates a torque command signal T.sub.CMD. A switch (314) couples T.sub.CMD to a motor controller (316, 14) which drives the motor (40) and therefore the vehicle. When the "gas pedal" calls for zero torque, and the vehicle speed is zero, the switch responds to logic (FIG. 5), and substitutes a position-holding torque command signal T.sub..theta. for the operator-controlled torque command signal T.sub.CMD. Position controlling torque command T.sub..theta. is generated by a controller (312) which receives a position signal representative of the angular position .theta. of the rotor. The position-holding torque control loop then produces such torque as may be required to prevent the rotor of the motor from moving from its commanded position.