System and method using friction clutch on electrified vehicle for enhanced shift feel

An electrified powertrain that generates and transfers drive torque to a driveline of an electrified vehicle, the electrified powertrain comprising:

• an electric drive module comprising:
• an electric motor having an output;
• a transmission that is driven by the output of the electric motor;
• and
• a clutch that moves between (i) a closed position that transfers torque from the transmission to the driveline;
• (ii) an open position that decouples torque from the transmission to the driveline;
• and (iii) a plurality of slip positions between the closed and open positions that partially transfer torque from the transmission to the driveline;
• a controller that controls operation of the clutch based on operating conditions including a position of an accelerator pedal, wherein the controller is configured to:
• command a steady state clutch operation and electric motor torque based on a position of the accelerator pedal;
• determine whether an output torque of the electric motor is at a limit;
• and
• command a simulated shift that modifies a position of the clutch based on a determination that the electric motor is at the limit.