KW to Hp Conversion Calculator
Click on the following link if you want to convert horsepower (hp) to kilowatts (kW)
History
The concept of horsepower dates back to the late 18th century when James Watt, a Scottish engineer, wanted a way to market his newly improved steam engines. To help people understand their power, he compared them to something familiar: horses. He calculated that one horse could do about 550 foot-pounds of work per second and called that one horsepower (hp).
The kilowatt (kW) came later, as part of the metric system, and represents 1,000 watts of power. It became the standard measurement in most parts of the world, especially for electricity and mechanical output.
Today, both units are still used. Kilowatts are common in engineering, electrical systems, and electric vehicles, while horsepower remains popular in the automotive industry, particularly in the United States and the UK.
Common Usage
- Kilowatts (kW) are used to measure electrical power and engine output in most modern vehicles, appliances, and industrial machines.
- Horsepower (hp) is widely used for cars, motorcycles, and boats, especially in English-speaking countries.
For example, car specifications in Europe are usually given in kilowatts, while American brochures often list the same model in horsepower. An engine rated at 100 kW is roughly 134 horsepower.
Kilowatts to Horsepower Conversion
To convert kilowatts (kW) to horsepower (hp), use this formula:
p = kW × 1.341
Example:
Convert 50 kW to horsepower.
hp = 50 × 1.341
hp = 67.05 hp
So, a 50-kilowatt motor produces about 67 horsepower.
Conversion Table
| Kilowatts (kW) | Horsepower (hp) |
|---|---|
| 1 kW | 1.34 hp |
| 5 kW | 6.71 hp |
| 10 kW | 13.41 hp |
| 20 kW | 26.82 hp |
| 30 kW | 40.23 hp |
| 50 kW | 67.05 hp |
| 75 kW | 100.58 hp |
| 100 kW | 134.10 hp |
| 150 kW | 201.15 hp |
| 200 kW | 268.20 hp |
| 300 kW | 402.30 hp |
This table helps visualize the relationship between the two units for engines, electric motors, or generators.
Fun Facts
- The term “horsepower” was invented as a marketing tool to make steam engines seem more relatable and impressive.
- A typical modern car engine produces anywhere between 100 and 300 horsepower, depending on size and performance.
- Electric cars often list both kW and hp, but kW is technically the more accurate unit since it directly measures power output.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which is more commonly used: kW or hp?
It depends on where you are. In Europe and most of the world, kilowatts are standard. In the U.S. and the U.K., horsepower remains more common.
2. How many kilowatts are in one horsepower?
One horsepower equals about 0.7457 kilowatts.
3. Why do electric cars list power in kW instead of hp?
Because kilowatts are part of the SI (metric) system and directly measure electrical power. Horsepower was developed for mechanical engines.
4. Can I convert hp to kW using the same formula backward?
Yes. To convert hp to kW, divide the horsepower value by 1.341.
5. Is mechanical horsepower the same as metric horsepower?
Not exactly. There are small variations. Metric horsepower (used in Europe) equals about 0.9863 mechanical horsepower.
