Why Convert Horsepower to Kilowatts?
Converting between horsepower (hp) and kilowatts (kW) is one of the most common power conversions. Whether for engineering, cooking, travel, or science, knowing how to quickly convert hp to kW saves time and prevents errors.
Power conversions between hp and kW are essential for automotive, electrical, and HVAC applications. Car specifications in Europe and China list engine power in kilowatts (kW), while the US and Japan prefer horsepower (hp). Home appliance energy labels show wattage for comparing electricity consumption. When sizing generators, air conditioners, or solar panels, accurate power conversion ensures you select the right equipment for your needs.
How to Convert Horsepower to Kilowatts
To convert horsepower to kilowatts, use the following formula:
kW = hp × 0.7456998716
Example: 1 hp = 0.7456998716 kW
For example, 5 hp = 3.728499358 kW, 10 hp = 7.456998716 kW, and 100 hp = 74.56998716 kW. Our calculator above performs this conversion instantly with full precision — no rounding errors.
Common Use Cases
- A typical family sedan: 150 hp = 111.8549807 kW
- Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus: 283 hp = 211.0330637 kW
- A high-performance sports car (e.g. BMW M5): 500 hp = 372.8499358 kW
- Bugatti Chiron supercar: 1000 hp = 745.6998716 kW
- A small outboard boat motor: 5 hp = 3.728499358 kW
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Horsepower variants: Mechanical horsepower (550 ft·lbf/s) ≈ 745.7 W, while metric horsepower (PS) ≈ 735.5 W. This converter uses mechanical hp.
- Peak vs continuous power: Motor specifications may list peak or continuous power. A "2000W peak" motor might only sustain 1200W continuously.
- Electrical vs mechanical: Electrical power (watts) and mechanical output (horsepower) differ by motor efficiency (typically 80-95%).
Pro Tips
- Memorize the factor: 1 hp = 0.7456998716 kW. For quick mental math, remember this base conversion.
- Quick reference: 5 hp = 3.728499358 kW · 10 hp = 7.456998716 kW · 25 hp = 18.64249679 kW · 50 hp = 37.28499358 kW · 100 hp = 74.56998716 kW
- Bookmark this page: Save this converter for instant access. It works offline once loaded — no internet needed.
Horsepower to Kilowatts Conversion Table
| hp | kW |
|---|---|
| 0.01 hp | 0.007456998716 kW |
| 0.1 hp | 0.07456998716 kW |
| 0.5 hp | 0.3728499358 kW |
| 1 hp | 0.7456998716 kW |
| 2 hp | 1.491399743 kW |
| 5 hp | 3.728499358 kW |
| 10 hp | 7.456998716 kW |
| 20 hp | 14.91399743 kW |
| 50 hp | 37.28499358 kW |
| 100 hp | 74.56998716 kW |
| 500 hp | 372.8499358 kW |
| 1000 hp | 745.6998716 kW |
All values in this table are mathematically exact per NIST SP 811.