CV to kW Converter
Enter power in CV (cheval vapeur) to convert instantly to kilowatts (kW).
If you work with engine specifications, industrial motors, or equipment datasheets, you’ll often run into different power units. In many European contexts, power is listed as CV, while technical standards and electrical systems usually use kW. This page gives you a quick conversion tool plus a practical guide to understanding what those numbers actually mean.
What does CV mean?
CV stands for cheval vapeur (French for “horsepower”). It is also commonly referred to as metric horsepower. CV is not exactly the same as the imperial or mechanical horsepower often abbreviated as hp.
- 1 CV = 735.49875 watts
- 1 CV = 0.73549875 kW
- 1 kW ≈ 1.35962 CV
Important: CV and hp are close, but not identical. If precision matters (engineering, procurement, compliance), always use the exact unit shown by the manufacturer.
CV to kW formula
To convert CV to kilowatts, use this formula:
kW = CV × 0.73549875
Example: a 100 CV engine converts to:
100 × 0.73549875 = 73.549875 kW
Rounded to two decimals, that’s 73.55 kW.
Quick reference table
| CV | kW | Approx. Watts |
|---|---|---|
| 1 CV | 0.7355 kW | 735 W |
| 5 CV | 3.6775 kW | 3,677 W |
| 10 CV | 7.3550 kW | 7,355 W |
| 20 CV | 14.7100 kW | 14,710 W |
| 50 CV | 36.7749 kW | 36,775 W |
| 75 CV | 55.1624 kW | 55,162 W |
| 100 CV | 73.5499 kW | 73,550 W |
| 150 CV | 110.3248 kW | 110,325 W |
| 200 CV | 147.0998 kW | 147,100 W |
Where this conversion is used
1) Automotive specifications
Vehicle brochures in some markets list engine output in CV. Technical regulations, EV charger planning, and powertrain comparisons are more often handled in kW. Converting avoids confusion when comparing models internationally.
2) Pumps, compressors, and industrial motors
Legacy equipment may display motor power in CV, while modern control systems and electrical calculations use kW. Correct conversion helps with:
- Choosing the right variable-frequency drive (VFD)
- Sizing cables and circuit breakers
- Estimating operating cost from energy usage
3) Energy and cost calculations
Electricity billing is based on energy (kWh), which starts from power in kW. If a machine is listed in CV, you must convert first before estimating monthly consumption and budget impact.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Mixing up CV and hp: They’re close but not equivalent.
- Rounding too early: Keep enough decimal places until the final result.
- Ignoring efficiency: Output power and input electrical power are not always the same.
- Assuming nameplate power equals real usage: Real load varies with operating conditions.
Frequently asked questions
Is CV the same as horsepower?
CV is metric horsepower. In casual conversation people may call both “horsepower,” but technically they differ from imperial/mechanical hp.
Can I convert kW back to CV?
Yes. Use:
CV = kW ÷ 0.73549875
How many decimal places should I use?
For general use, two decimal places are fine. For engineering design, use at least four decimals in intermediate steps and round only at the end.
Final takeaway
The conversion from CV to kW is simple, but very useful across automotive, industrial, and energy planning contexts. Use the calculator above for instant results, and keep the formula handy whenever you need a quick manual check.