Hp to kW Conversion Calculator
Click on the following link if you want to convert kilowatts (kW) to horsepower (hp)
History
The term horsepower (hp) was introduced in the late 1700s by James Watt, the Scottish engineer who also improved the steam engine. He wanted an easy way to explain how powerful his engines were, so he compared them to something everyone understood: a horse.
Over time, horsepower became the standard for measuring mechanical power in vehicles and machines, especially in English-speaking countries.
The kilowatt (kW), however, is part of the metric system and measures the same thing—power—but in electrical and scientific terms. As technology advanced and the metric system spread globally, kilowatts became the preferred and more precise unit.
Common Usage
- Horsepower (hp) is still widely used for car engines, motorcycles, and boats, particularly in the U.S. and the U.K.
- Kilowatts (kW) are the international standard for measuring power output in electric motors, machinery, and vehicles, including electric cars.
If a car engine is rated at 150 hp, that equals roughly 112 kW. European car brochures usually list both numbers so that consumers can compare specifications easily.
Horsepower to Kilowatts Conversion
To convert horsepower (hp) to kilowatts (kW), use this simple formula:
kW = hp ÷ 1.341
Example:
Convert 200 horsepower to kilowatts.
kW = 200 ÷ 1.341
kW = 149.1 kW
So, an engine with 200 hp produces about 149 kW of power.
Conversion Table
| Horsepower (hp) | Kilowatts (kW) |
|---|---|
| 1 hp | 0.75 kW |
| 5 hp | 3.73 kW |
| 10 hp | 7.46 kW |
| 20 hp | 14.91 kW |
| 50 hp | 37.28 kW |
| 75 hp | 55.92 kW |
| 100 hp | 74.57 kW |
| 150 hp | 111.86 kW |
| 200 hp | 149.14 kW |
| 300 hp | 223.71 kW |
| 400 hp | 298.28 kW |
These are common engine power levels for cars, boats, and industrial equipment.
Fun Facts
- One horsepower is not an exact value worldwide—the metric horsepower used in Europe is slightly different (1 PS = 0.7355 kW).
- The average compact car engine has around 100–150 hp, or roughly 75–110 kW.
- Electric cars often show power in kilowatts instead of horsepower, aligning with modern electrical measurement standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many kilowatts are in one horsepower?
One horsepower equals about 0.7457 kilowatts.
2. Why do electric vehicles use kilowatts instead of horsepower?
Because kilowatts directly measure electrical power output, making them more suitable for electric motors.
3. Is metric horsepower the same as mechanical horsepower?
No. Metric horsepower (PS) is slightly lower. 1 metric hp = 0.7355 kW, while 1 mechanical hp = 0.7457 kW.
4. How can I roughly estimate hp to kW in my head?
Multiply by 0.75. It’s not exact, but it’s good for quick mental math.
Example: 100 hp × 0.75 = about 75 kW.
5. Can I convert kW back to hp easily?
Yes. Multiply kilowatts by 1.341 to get horsepower.
