How do I convert kilowatts to horsepower?

Divide the kilowatt value by 0.74569987 for mechanical horsepower, by 0.746 for electrical horsepower, or by 0.73549875 for metric horsepower (PS). For example, 10 kW equals approximately 13.41 mechanical hp.

What is the difference between mechanical, electrical, and metric horsepower?

Mechanical (imperial) horsepower is 745.69987 W and is the US standard for engines. Electrical horsepower is exactly 746 W, used for electric motor ratings in North America. Metric horsepower (PS or CV) is 735.49875 W and is common in Europe and Asia for vehicle and engine specs.

Why does 1 kW equal different HP values depending on the type?

Each horsepower definition was set by a different standards body or historical convention. Mechanical hp was derived from a steam engine benchmark, electrical hp was standardized by IEEE, and metric hp is defined in SI units. The differences are under 1.5% but matter for precision specifications.

How many horsepower is 1 kilowatt?

1 kilowatt equals approximately 1.3410 mechanical hp, 1.3405 electrical hp, or 1.3596 metric hp (PS). The metric value is slightly higher because metric hp is the smallest of the three units.

Which horsepower type should I use for car engine ratings?

Use mechanical hp for US market vehicles and metric hp (PS or CV) for European or Asian vehicles. Electrical hp applies to electric motors in a North American industrial context. When comparing international specs, confirm which standard the manufacturer used.

Is this converter accurate enough for engineering use?

Yes. The conversion factors match ISO and IEEE definitions to six or more significant figures, which covers the precision needed for motor selection, equipment comparison, and specification work.

Kilowatts to Horsepower Converter

Name: Kilowatts to Horsepower Converter
Availability: InStock
Author: Nham Vu

Enter kilowatts to instantly get mechanical, electrical, and metric horsepower — with a quick reference table for common motors.

Power Converter

Kilowatts (kW)

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Enter a kilowatt value on the left to see results.

Common Motor and Engine Power Reference

Device / Motor	kW	hp (mech)	PS (metric)

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