Calculator: Convert Kilowatts (kW) to Horsepower (hp) and Vice Versa

This calculator helps you quickly convert engine power. To convert kilowatts to horsepower, the value in kW is multiplied by a coefficient of 1.3596 (since 1 kW ≈ 1.36 hp). If you need to perform the reverse calculation (from hp to kW), divide by this same coefficient or multiply by 0.735.

How many kilowatts are in one horsepower and vice versa

• 1 kW = 1.3596 hp (metric horsepower);
• 1 kW = 1.341 hp (Imperial/mechanical standard);
• 1 kW = 1.3405 hp (electric horsepower).

There are several units of measurement known as "horsepower". In Continental Europe, "metric horsepower" (often denoted as PS) is typically used, which is equal to ≈0.7355 kW.

In the UK and the USA, mechanical horsepower (hp or bhp) is used, which is equal to 0.7457 kW (or approximately 1.014 metric hp). Therefore, for accuracy, it is worth checking which power standard is specified in your documentation before using the converter.

How to use the power converter

1. Select the conversion direction (kW to hp or hp to kW).
2. If necessary, specify the standard (metric is commonly used in Europe, mechanical in the UK).
3. Enter the numeric power value into the corresponding field.

Why use an online converter

The power unit conversion calculator helps not only to find out how many hp are in 1 kW but also to correctly prepare data for various documentation. Most often, an accurate conversion of kilowatts to horsepower is required by car owners for calculating vehicle tax and arranging insurance policies, where premiums may depend on engine power in hp.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How many kilowatts are in one horsepower?

  One metric horsepower is equal to 0.735 kilowatts (735.5 W). To calculate power in kW, the value in horsepower is multiplied by 0.735 or divided by 1.36.

• How many hp in 1 kW?

  One kilowatt contains 1.36 horsepower (metric standard). To convert kW to hp, you need to multiply the value by 1.3596.

• 5 hp — how much is that in kW?

  According to metric calculation (1 hp = 0.735 kW), 5 horsepower is approximately equal to 3.68 kW. If referring to an electric motor (where 1 hp = 746 W), then 5 hp would be 3.73 kW.

• 7 kW — how much is that in hp?

  7 kW equates to 9.52 hp. To get the result, multiply the power in kilowatts (7) by the coefficient 1.3596.