Convert HP to KW, Free
Type any HP value and see the KW result instantly. No button press needed.
How to convert HP to KW
Horsepower (hp) and kilowatts (kW) both measure power, but they arise from different industrial traditions. Horsepower was defined by James Watt in the 1780s to market steam engines against horse-drawn alternatives. Kilowatts are the SI metric unit used in most of the world for electrical appliances, motor ratings, and vehicle power in countries that have adopted metric systems.
The conversion factor is 1 mechanical horsepower = 0.74569987 kilowatts (approximately 0.746 kW). This converter applies the exact factor. Note that there are several definitions of horsepower; this tool uses the mechanical (or imperial) horsepower that appears on US vehicle specifications and engine ratings.
Enter the horsepower value
Type the hp rating you want to convert. Decimals are supported, so 150.5 hp is valid input.
Read the kilowatt result
The converter multiplies your hp value by 0.745699872 and displays the kW equivalent immediately.
Use in comparisons
Apply the kW value to compare vehicles across markets, check motor specifications, or calculate energy consumption when paired with time.
Reverse if needed
To convert kW to hp, divide by 0.7457 or use the kW to hp converter.
Frequently asked questions
How many kW is 1 horsepower?
1 mechanical horsepower = 0.74569987 kilowatts, typically rounded to 0.746 kW. To convert quickly in your head, multiply hp by 0.75 for an approximate result.
What is the difference between mechanical, metric, and electrical horsepower?
Mechanical (imperial) horsepower = 745.7 W. Metric horsepower (used in European vehicle specs) = 735.5 W. Electrical horsepower (used for electric motors in the US) = 746 W exactly. The differences are small but matter in precise engineering calculations.
Why do European car specs list power in kW while US specs use hp?
Europe adopted SI metric units for official documentation, so engine power must be stated in kW. Manufacturers often list both (e.g., '147 kW / 200 hp') because consumers are accustomed to hp as the intuitive power reference in the US and UK.
What is 100 hp in kW?
100 x 0.7457 = 74.57 kW. This is a typical power rating for a compact car engine.
How does power relate to energy consumption?
Power in kW multiplied by time in hours gives energy in kilowatt-hours (kWh), the unit on your electricity bill. A 100 kW motor running for 1 hour consumes 100 kWh. This relationship is why kW is the preferred unit in electrical and energy contexts.