Instant kW ⇄ HP Conversion
What this kW to HP calculator does
This calculator converts kilowatts (kW) to horsepower (HP) and back in seconds. It supports the three most common horsepower definitions used in real projects: mechanical horsepower, metric horsepower, and electrical horsepower.
If you work with pumps, compressors, generators, industrial motors, HVAC systems, or automotive specs, a quick and accurate kilowatts to horsepower conversion helps you compare ratings, size equipment, and communicate clearly across datasheets.
kW to HP conversion formulas
1) Mechanical horsepower (hp)
Mechanical horsepower is common in US and many engineering contexts.
- HP = kW × 1.34102209
- kW = HP ÷ 1.34102209
2) Metric horsepower (PS / cv)
Metric horsepower is frequently used in Europe and in automotive documentation.
- PS = kW × 1.359621617
- kW = PS ÷ 1.359621617
3) Electrical horsepower (ehp)
Electrical horsepower appears in electrical and motor calculations.
- ehp = kW × 1.340482574
- kW = ehp ÷ 1.340482574
Quick reference table (kW to horsepower)
| kW | Mechanical HP | Metric HP (PS) | Electrical HP |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1.3410 | 1.3596 | 1.3405 |
| 5 | 6.7051 | 6.7981 | 6.7024 |
| 10 | 13.4102 | 13.5962 | 13.4048 |
| 25 | 33.5256 | 33.9905 | 33.5121 |
| 50 | 67.0511 | 67.9811 | 67.0241 |
| 100 | 134.1022 | 135.9622 | 134.0483 |
When should you use each HP type?
- Mechanical HP: General engineering, industrial machinery, and many US datasheets.
- Metric HP (PS/cv): European vehicles and some international motor specs.
- Electrical HP: Specialized electrical system calculations.
If your document does not specify the standard, use mechanical horsepower only as a default starting point, then confirm with the equipment manufacturer.
Worked examples
Example 1: Convert 15 kW to HP (mechanical)
15 × 1.34102209 = 20.1153 hp
Example 2: Convert 75 HP to kW (mechanical)
75 ÷ 1.34102209 = 55.927 kW
Example 3: Convert 90 kW to metric horsepower
90 × 1.359621617 = 122.366 PS
Why this matters for motor sizing
A small conversion error can create real-world problems: overloaded motors, inefficient operation, incorrect breaker sizing, or mismatched drive components. When comparing motors from different vendors, always align units first (kW and HP) before evaluating torque, current draw, service factor, and efficiency class.
FAQ
Is 1 kW exactly 1.34 HP?
Approximately, yes. For quick estimates, 1 kW ≈ 1.34 mechanical HP. For engineering work, use the full factor shown above.
Can I use this for pump and compressor power?
Yes. This converter works for any power value where kW and HP are the relevant units.
Does this include efficiency losses?
No. It is a pure unit conversion tool. Efficiency, load factor, and power factor must be handled separately.
Bottom line
Use the calculator above when you need fast, accurate kW to HP or HP to kW conversion. Select the right horsepower standard, enter your value, and you’ll get a reliable result you can use in engineering notes, equipment comparisons, or procurement decisions.