KW to HP Converter

Kilowatts (KW)	Horsepower (HP)
1 KW	1.341 HP
5 KW	6.71 HP
10 KW	13.41 HP
25 KW	33.53 HP
50 KW	67.05 HP
100 KW	134.1 HP
200 KW	268.2 HP
500 KW	670.5 HP
1,000 KW	1,341 HP

Complete Guide: Converting Kilowatts to Horsepower

Converting kilowatts (KW) to horsepower (HP) is essential in electrical, automotive, and industrial applications. This comprehensive guide explains the conversion process, formula, and practical applications of KW to HP conversion.

Understanding the Conversion

Kilowatts are metric SI units commonly used in electrical systems worldwide, while horsepower is a traditional unit still widely used in automotive and mechanical applications. The conversion factor is based on the precise definition of mechanical horsepower.

Conversion Formula

The conversion from kilowatts to horsepower uses the following formula:

HP = KW × 1.34102209

For practical purposes, we often round this to 1.341, which provides sufficient accuracy for most applications.

Types of Horsepower Considerations

When converting KW to HP, consider which type of horsepower is needed:

Mechanical HP: KW × 1.341 (most common in US)
Metric HP (PS): KW × 1.360 (used in Europe)
Electrical HP: KW × 1.340 (exact electrical definition)
Boiler HP: KW × 0.102 (steam boilers)

Common Applications

Electric Motors: Converting electrical ratings to mechanical output
Automotive: Electric vehicle motor specifications
Industrial Equipment: Power tool and machinery ratings
Generators: Electrical output to mechanical equivalent
Marine: Electric propulsion systems

Practical Examples

Electric car motor: 75 KW = 100.6 HP
Industrial pump: 37 KW = 49.6 HP
Electric motorcycle: 15 KW = 20.1 HP
Wind turbine: 2,000 KW = 2,682 HP
Electric boat motor: 50 KW = 67.1 HP

Electrical vs Mechanical Power

Important considerations when converting KW to HP:

Efficiency: Motors convert electrical power to mechanical power with losses
Power Factor: AC motors may have reactive power components
Load Conditions: Power output varies with load and operating conditions
Rating Standards: Different countries may use different HP definitions

Tips for Accurate Conversion

Specify which type of horsepower is required
Use the precise factor (1.34102209) for engineering calculations
Consider motor efficiency when comparing electrical input to mechanical output
Account for power factor in AC electrical systems
Verify operating conditions and ambient temperature effects

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is KW becoming more common than HP?

KW is the international standard (SI unit) and is used universally in electrical systems. It's more precise and consistent across different applications and countries.

Is a 100 KW motor exactly 134.1 HP output?

Not necessarily. The conversion gives equivalent power, but actual mechanical output depends on motor efficiency (typically 85-95%). A 100 KW motor might deliver 85-95 HP mechanically.

Can I use this conversion for electric vehicle motors?

Yes, but EV specifications often list both continuous and peak power. Make sure you're comparing like-for-like ratings (continuous to continuous, peak to peak).

What's the difference between input and output power?

Input power is electrical consumption, output power is mechanical delivery. Due to losses, output is always less than input. This conversion assumes equivalent power levels.

How do I convert generator KW to HP?

For generators, use the same conversion (KW × 1.341), but remember this represents the mechanical input needed to produce the electrical output, plus losses.

Conversion Result

KW to HP Conversion Table

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