Vorbetätigende engine separating clutch in a hybrid vehicle

A hybrid vehicle comprising an engine and an electric machine, which are coupled via a coupling specifically with each other. In one mode of operation, the vehicle can be driven only by the electric machine, while the engine is off. If additional torque is required from the engine, transmits at least one control an engine start request. To start the engine, the clutch can be vorbetatigt so that it fills up before the engine for engine starting with pressure. While the vehicle is switched on, at least a controller programmed to vorzubetatigen the clutch prior to the engine start request based at least in that the electrical machine and the engine generating a torque of substantially zero. This increases the engine starting total time required.