A hybrid energy system for propelling an off-highway vehicle includes an engine rated at a first power capacity, and a power converter driven by the engine for providing primary electric power. A traction motor system receives the primary electric power, the traction motor system propelling the off-highway vehicle in response to the primary electric power, and the traction motor system further including a dynamic braking mode of operation. An energy storage medium captures electrical energy generated by the traction motor system in the dynamic braking mode of operation, the energy storage medium transferring a portion of the captured energy to the traction motor system to augment the primary electric power, wherein the traction motor system is rated at a second power capacity exceeding the first power capacity.