Method and control device for operating a hybrid vehicle

The method involves performing speed-controlled operation of an internal combustion engine (1) with minimum rotation number, for starting the engine of hybrid vehicle from standstill by an electric machine (2). The engine is fired by introduction of fuel. The delay time between start request of the internal combustion engine and starting of the hybrid vehicle is shortened. A transmission (4) is inserted between the electric machine and an output (3) of the hybrid vehicle-connected switching element (6,10,13) during start of engine such that starting speed is below drive rotation speed. An independent claim is included for a control unit of hybrid vehicle.