A friction apply device, from among each pair of friction apply devices that
are
applied to achieve a speed from first speed to fourth speed, that is to be placed
in a slipping state is selected based on a heat load when a neutral control is
executed. As a result, it is possible to continue to execute the neutral control
without the durability of the friction apply device being impaired by the heat
load, for example, thereby increasing a fuel efficiency effect and the like achieved
by the neutral control.