What is the difference between mechanical and electric horsepower?

Mechanical (imperial) horsepower is defined as exactly 550 foot-pounds per second (≈ 745.7 W). Electric horsepower is defined as exactly 746 W. Metric horsepower (PS or CV) is defined as 75 kgf·m/s (≈ 735.499 W). The differences are small but matter in precise engineering calculations.

Which horsepower type should I use for car engines?

North American manufacturers typically use mechanical (SAE) horsepower. European manufacturers often quote metric horsepower (PS). Electric vehicles may list electric horsepower. Check the spec sheet footnotes to confirm which standard applies.

How accurate is this converter?

Results are computed to 6 significant figures using the exact conversion constants: 1 kW = 1.341022 mechanical hp, 1 kW = 1.340483 electric hp, and 1 kW = 1.359622 metric hp.

Can I convert fractional kilowatts, like 0.75 kW?

Yes. The input accepts any positive number including decimals. For example, 0.75 kW equals approximately 1.006 mechanical hp.

What is metric horsepower (PS or CV)?

Metric horsepower (Pferdestärke in German, or cheval-vapeur in French) is defined as the power needed to raise a 75 kg mass by 1 meter in 1 second against gravity. It is slightly less than mechanical horsepower and is common in European automotive ratings.

Kilowatts to Horsepower Calculator

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

Enter kilowatts and instantly get mechanical horsepower, electric horsepower, and metric horsepower with conversion formulas.

Power Input

kW → hp hp → kW

Kilowatts (kW)

Conversion Formulas

1 kW = 1.341022 hp (mechanical)
1 kW = 1.340483 hp (electric)
1 kW = 1.359622 hp (metric / PS)

Results Click a row to copy

Enter a value to see results

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Summary

Enter kilowatts and instantly get mechanical horsepower, electric horsepower, and metric horsepower with conversion formulas.

How it works

Enter a power value in kilowatts in the input field.
The tool applies each conversion factor: 1 kW = 1.34102 mechanical hp, 1 kW = 1.34048 electric hp, 1 kW = 1.35962 metric hp.
All three horsepower results update instantly as you type.
Use the reverse toggle to convert horsepower back to kilowatts.
Click any result row to copy the value to your clipboard.

Use cases

Compare engine power ratings listed in kW vs. hp on car spec sheets.
Size electric motors for industrial machinery or HVAC systems.
Verify generator output ratings during procurement.
Convert electric vehicle power figures for international markets.
Check pump or compressor nameplate power in different unit systems.
Academic and engineering coursework on power units.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: 2026-06-14 · Reviewed by Nham Vu