An automatic shifting power transmission includes a hydrodynamic fluid drive device, a first reaction clutch disposed in series with the hydrodynamic fluid drive device, a variable capacity clutch disposed in parallel with the hydrodynamic fluid drive device, and an electric machine disposed in series with the hydrodynamic fluid drive device and the first reaction clutch. A method of controlling the automatic transmission includes slipping the first reaction clutch corresponding to a first gear engagement to affect a first gear launch maneuver when engine load is at or above a first predetermined value. The method includes the steps of fully engaging the first reaction clutch corresponding to the first gear engagement when engine load is below the first predetermined value, slipping the variable capacity clutch corresponding to the first gear engagement when engine load is below a second predetermined value, fully engaging a second reaction clutch corresponding to the appropriate gear engagement, depressurizing the hydrodynamic fluid drive device corresponding to a second gear engagement, and energizing the electric machine corresponding to a second gear engagement, the electric machine driving a turbine of the hydrodynamic fluid drive device further removing fluid from the hydrodynamic fluid drive device.