A method for operating a vehicle is provided with an electric machine connected to a battery of less than 150 volts and coupled to an internal combustion engine such that a crankshaft of the engine rotates at all times the electric machine operates to supply power from the battery and all times the electric machine operates to capture power for storage in the battery. Motive force is provided to the vehicle with power output by the internal combustion engine. During movement of the vehicle, ignition of the engine is ceased in response to an engine load below a specified threshold. Pumping losses and drive train drag are reduced by altering at least one mechanical property of the internal combustion engine.