Vehicle powertrain control system and method for enhanced vehicle start-up acceleration

A vehicle powertrain includes an electric motor (4) and a clutch (12) between the electric motor and a motor driven road wheel (3L, 3R). Powertrain play between the electric motor (4) and the road wheel is eliminated upon determination that powertrain play elimination (PPE) is needed for motor torque transmission to the motor driven road wheel. The PPE includes controlling engagement of the clutch and regulating the electric motor to produce a very small amount of motor torque required for PPE.