System and methods are provided for improving launch performance of a hybrid vehicle. During a stall condition prior to launch, the engine of the hybrid vehicle can produce engine torque beyond a standard stall torque limit. Negative motor torque that offsets the increase in engine torque in accordance with the standard stall torque limit is produced by the motor. This results in loading the automatic transmission of the hybrid vehicle with additional torque that would otherwise not be possible. During a launch condition following the stall condition, the motor torque is dropped to 0 Nm, and the brakes are released, allowing the hybrid vehicle to accelerate. The full torque generated by the engine is provided to the automatic transmission and used to drive one or more wheels of the hybrid vehicle.