The present invention relates to a work machine, in particular in the form of a dump truck or truck, comprising a traction drive unit and/or main work unit which can be driven by a drive apparatus comprising at least one electric motor. The invention further relates to a method for operating such a work machine, in accordance with the invention, the drive apparatus comprises at least one hydraulic motor supporting the electric motor, the hydraulic motor being switched in for starting the drive apparatus and being decoupled on an exceeding of a predefined speed.