METHODS AND SYSTEM FOR ENGINE CONTROL DURING GEAR SHIFTING IN A HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE

Methods and systems are provided for controlling engine operation in response to a request to shift a transmission gear. In one example, a method may include maintaining operating conditions of an engine and redirecting electric power generated via the engine from a traction motor to a battery in response to a request to shift a transmission while the driveline is operating in a series mode. In this way engine efficiency may be improved and a time frame for shifting a transmission gear may be reduced responsive to a gear shift request while the powertrain is operating in series mode.