During engine startup and engagement of a transmission clutch in response to an EV→HEV mode-switch demand, the transmission clutch is engaged, which precedes initiation of self-sustaining running by the engine. During the clutch engagement, high engine torque is not input to the transmission clutch, and no large torque differential arises in relation to the torque at the output side of the transmission clutch, which during EV operation is a low value about equal to the low motor torque of an electric motor. Additionally, due to cranking during engine startup, the input/output rotation difference of the transmission clutch is small, and when the transmission clutch is engaged, engagement of the transmission clutch may be carried out with reduced shock, as the input/output torque differential and the input/output rotation difference are small.