How to Convert Kilowatts to Horsepower
To convert from kilowatts to horsepower, multiply the value by 1.34102. The conversion is linear, meaning doubling the input doubles the output.
Conversion Formula
- Kilowatts to Horsepower:
hp = kW × 1.34102 - Horsepower to Kilowatts:
kW = hp ÷ 1.34102
Kilowatts to Horsepower Conversion Chart
| Kilowatts (kW) | Horsepower (hp) |
|---|---|
| 0.1 | 0.134102 |
| 0.25 | 0.335255 |
| 0.5 | 0.67051 |
| 1 | 1.34102 |
| 2 | 2.68204 |
| 3 | 4.02306 |
| 5 | 6.7051 |
| 10 | 13.4102 |
| 20 | 26.8204 |
| 25 | 33.5255 |
| 50 | 67.051 |
| 100 | 134.102 |
| 250 | 335.255 |
| 1000 | 1341.02 |
Understanding the Units
What is a Kilowatt?
A kilowatt equals 1,000 watts.
Common contexts: home appliances, small motors, EV charging.
What is a Horsepower?
One mechanical horsepower equals exactly 745.6998715822702 watts; one metric horsepower equals exactly 735.49875 watts.
Defined by James Watt to compare steam engines to draft horses pulling weights.
Common contexts: automotive, small engines.
Real-World Reference Points
| Item | Kilowatts (kW) | Horsepower (hp) |
|---|---|---|
| Riding lawnmower | 13.4226 | 18 |
| Compact sedan | 111.8552 | 150 |
| Sports car | 298.2804 | 400 |
Common Conversions
Kilowatts converted to mechanical horsepower using the factor 1.34102.
| Kilowatts | Horsepower |
|---|---|
| 0.5 | 0.67 |
| 1 | 1.34 |
| 2 | 2.68 |
| 3 | 4.02 |
| 5 | 6.71 |
| 7.5 | 10.06 |
| 10 | 13.41 |
| 15 | 20.12 |
| 20 | 26.82 |
| 50 | 67.05 |
| 75 | 100.58 |
| 100 | 134.10 |
| 150 | 201.15 |
| 200 | 268.20 |
Power of Everyday Machines
The auto reference table above lists engines and vehicles in horsepower. Because kilowatts are how appliances and chargers are rated, these examples run the other way — familiar electrical loads shown in both kW and hp.
| Machine | Kilowatts | Horsepower |
|---|---|---|
| Microwave oven | 1.2 kW | 1.61 hp |
| Portable space heater | 1.5 kW | 2.01 hp |
| Electric kettle | 3 kW | 4.02 hp |
| Home air conditioner | 3.5 kW | 4.69 hp |
| Level 2 EV home charger | 7.4 kW | 9.92 hp |
| Compact EV drive motor | 100 kW | 134.10 hp |
| Performance EV (dual motor) | 250 kW | 335.26 hp |
Mechanical, Metric, and Electric Horsepower
"Horsepower" has more than one definition, which is why conversions can differ slightly between sources. Mechanical (imperial) horsepower — the value this converter uses — equals 745.7 watts, so 1 kW = 1.34102 hp. Metric horsepower (written PS in Germany or CV in France) equals 735.5 watts, giving 1 kW = 1.35962 PS. Electric horsepower, used for motor ratings, is defined as exactly 746 watts. James Watt originally chose the unit to compare his steam engines with the draft horses they replaced.
Related power tools: watts to horsepower, horsepower to kilowatts, kilowatts to watts, and kilowatts to megawatts.