Method for operating a drive device for a motor vehicle and corresponding drive device

A method for operating a drive unit for a motor vehicle, wherein the drive unit comprises an internal combustion engine, an electric machine configured to be coupled to the internal combustion engine, and a start-up clutch, via which the internal combustion engine and the electric machine are configured to connect to an output shaft of the drive unit, wherein, in a start-up operating mode of the drive unit, the method comprises:

• selecting a start-up speed to be equal to a speed at which the internal combustion engine provides maximum torque over all possible speeds of the internal combustion engine, wherein the speed is determined based upon the maximum torque;
• cranking the internal combustion engine exclusively by the electric machine without fuel ignition, until reaching the start-up speed which is greater than an idle speed of the internal combustion engine;
• after reaching the start-up speed, operating the internal combustion engine with fuel-ignition;
• and
• closing the start-up clutch.