A powertrain includes an output member, and first and second simple planetary gear sets. The planetary gear sets each have a first, a second, and a third member including a sun gear, carrier, and ring gear member. The drive unit includes a single electric machine operable as a motor and having a rotor connected to rotate in unison with and drive the sun gear member of the first planetary gear set. An interconnecting member connects the second member of the first planetary gear set to rotate in unison with the first member of the second planetary gear set. The third member of the first planetary gear set or the second member of the second planetary gear set is continuously grounded to the stationary member or operatively connected to be driven by an engine. The third member of the second planetary gear set is continuously operatively connected to the output member.