In hybrid electric vehicles having increased battery storage capacity and plug-in capability, electric-only operation of significant duration is available. To supplement lubrication for the electric and mechanical component provided by an engine-driven mechanical pump, an electric pump is provided in parallel to the mechanical pump. A method to control the electric pump is also disclosed in which a first desired quantity of a first component and a second desired quantity of a second component are determined. The electric pump is commanded to provide the greater of the first and second quantities. The desired quantity can be based on preventing temperature in the component from exceeding a maximum design temperature and/or providing sufficient lubrication to rotating parts of the component.