Powertrain and method for fast start of an internal combustion engine in a hybrid electric vehicle

A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle powertrain comprises an internal combustion engine (1) and an electric vehicle traction motor, an engine lubrication oil pump (2) in fluid communication with a lubrication oil flow circuit for the internal combustion engine, an electric oil pump drive motor (3) drivingly connected to the lubrication oil pump (2), and a powertrain control module (4). The powertrain control module (4) is configured to start the electric oil pump drive motor (3) immediately upon the initial start of the vehicle.