VEHICLE RACE LAUNCH SYSTEMS

A hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) includes an internal combustion engine, an electric traction motor, a motor/generator, and a transmission. A launch control system includes a controller having one or more processors programmed to (A) operate the HEV in a vehicle launch preparation phase while the HEV is at a standstill, including (i) commanding the internal combustion engine to an engine speed launch target, (ii) performing a spark retardation on the internal combustion engine to limit wheel torque and generate an engine airflow torque reserve, and (iii) commanding zero torque to the electric traction motor; and (B) operate the HEV in a vehicle launch phase, including (i) reducing or removing the spark retardation, and (ii) commanding the electric traction motor to operate at a predetermined torque, to thereby utilize the engine airflow torque reserve in combination with the electric traction motor to provide increased vehicle acceleration.