A method for controlling an electric drive of a vehicle is provided, e.g., an electric bicycle, which is able to be operated by muscular energy and/or motor power, the vehicle including a crank gear and the electric drive being disposed at the crank gear. The method includes: ascertaining a driving situation, for which the electric drive is to be used, and in this situation, initially running up the electric drive at a first gradient, and then at a second gradient, the first gradient being greater than the second gradient.