Method of controlling engine idle speed during launch from neutral idle operation

A method of controlling engine idle speed in a vehicle, comprising the steps of:

• determining a predicted torque converter load during launch from neutral idle operation;
• and
• controlling engine torque output based on said predicted torque converter load.

A method for controlling a vehicle having an engine coupled to a transmission, the transmission having a torque converter operably associated with a clutch, the clutch controlling torque transfer to a vehicle axle, the method comprising:

• determining a predicted torque converter load when changing an operational pressure of the clutch;
• and
• adjusting an engine output torque towards the predicted torque converter load to substantially maintain a speed of the engine.

A method for controlling a vehicle having an engine coupled to a transmission, the transmission having a torque converter operably associated with a transmission clutch, the method comprising:

• estimating a future torque converter load to be applied to the engine when moving the clutch toward an engaged operational position;
• and
• adjusting an engine output torque toward the estimated torque converter load to substantially maintain a speed of the engine.

A method for controlling a vehicle having an engine coupled to a transmission, the transmission having a torque converter operably coupled to a transmission clutch, the method comprising:

• estimating a future torque converter load when transitioning the transmission between neutral idle operation and forward drive operation;
• and
• increasing an engine output torque toward the predicted torque converter load to substantially maintain a speed of the engine during the transition.