A method and apparatus to control an electro-mechanical transmission is provided, selectively operative in a plurality of fixed gear modes and continuously variable modes, and comprising first and second electrical machines and hydraulically-actuated clutches. Included is launching a vehicle so equipped, comprising operating the electro-mechanical transmission in a continuously variable mode to transmit motive torque from the first electrical machine to the driveline, and, selectively increasing an operating speed of the engine and selectively actuating a second clutch to transmit motive torque generated by the second electrical machine when an operator torque request exceeds a predetermined threshold.