106 LearnersLast updated on July 9th, 2025
HP to kW Conversion
We can measure power using units like horsepower (hp) or kilowatts (kW). Different units are used to measure different things. Horsepower is often used to measure the power of engines, like those in cars or boats. Kilowatt, a unit in the metric system, is often used for electrical power and is part of the International System of Units (SI). Sometimes we need to change horsepower to kilowatts to make it easier to understand power ratings. In this topic, we will learn how to convert horsepower to kilowatts.
What is Horsepower?
Horsepower is a unit of power that is commonly used in the United States and the United Kingdom to denote the power output of engines. It was originally defined to compare the output of steam engines to the power of draft horses. One horsepower is defined as 746 watts. The symbol for horsepower is hp, and it is widely used to describe the power of vehicles and machinery.
What is Kilowatt?
A kilowatt (kW) is a unit of power equivalent to 1,000 watts. It is a metric unit that is part of the International System of Units (SI). Kilowatts are often used to express the output power of engines, tools, and appliances in a way that is easy to understand on a global scale. The symbol for kilowatt is kW.
HP to kW Formula
To convert horsepower to kilowatts, we use the following formula: 1 horsepower = 0.7457 kilowatts So, to convert from horsepower to kilowatts, you multiply the number of horsepower by 0.7457. Conversely, to convert from kilowatts to horsepower, you divide the number of kilowatts by 0.7457.
How to Convert HP to kW?
Converting horsepower (hp) to kilowatts (kW) is simple using a standard conversion factor. Since 1 horsepower is equal to 0.7457 kilowatts, we can convert horsepower to kilowatts by multiplying the number of horsepower by 0.7457. Steps to convert hp to kW: Write down the power in horsepower. Multiply the value by 0.7457 to get the power in kilowatts. Formula: kW = hp × 0.7457
HP to kW Conversion Chart
When we measure power, sometimes we use horsepower (hp) and sometimes we use kilowatts (kW). We use simple conversions to understand how much something in horsepower is in kilowatts. Below is a chart that shows us the horsepower-to-kilowatt conversions.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them in HP to kW Conversion
When converting horsepower to kilowatts, people often make mistakes. Here are some common mistakes to get a better understanding of the concepts of conversions.
Mistake 1
Using the wrong conversion factor
People get confused and use incorrect values for conversion, such as 0.75 instead of 0.7457.
Mistake 2
Rounding too soon
Individuals might round numbers too early while calculating, which can lead to incorrect results. For example, instead of writing 100 × 0.7457 = 74.57, they might round it to 75, which is not accurate.
Mistake 3
Misplacing decimal points
People get confused and place the decimal point incorrectly, which leads to improper values. For example, instead of writing the value for 200 hp as 149.14 kW, they write it as 1491.4 kW.
Mistake 4
Incorrect use of formula
People get confused and use the incorrect formula. For example, instead of multiplying, they divide. To convert any value from hp to kW, we multiply hp by 0.7457, not divide.
Mistake 5
Misunderstanding the relationship between hp and watts
People often get confused about the relationship between horsepower and watts. They might think 1 hp is 1,000 watts, but it actually equals 746 watts. Remember, 1 horsepower is approximately 746 watts.
HP to kW Conversion Examples
Problem 1
Convert 500 hp to kW
500 hp = 372.85 kW
Explanation
We know the conversion factor: 1 hp = 0.7457 kW Now, multiply 500 by the conversion factor: 500 × 0.7457 = 372.85 kW
Problem 2
Convert 75 hp to kW.
Solution: Converting 75 hp to kW gives us 56.9275 kW.
Explanation
Use the conversion factor: 1 hp = 0.7457 kW 75 × 0.7457 = 56.9275 kW
Problem 3
A generator's power is 150 hp. What is the power in kW?
The power of the generator in kW is 111.855 kW.
Explanation
Convert 150 hp to kW: 150 hp = 150 × 0.7457 = 111.855 kW Power = 111.855 kW.
Problem 4
The motor is rated at 250 hp. What is its power in kW?
The power in kW is 186.425 kW.
Explanation
Convert 250 hp to kW: 250 hp = 250 × 0.7457 = 186.425 kW Power = 186.425 kW (approximately).
Problem 5
Converting 1,000 hp to kW
1,000 hp = 745.7 kW
Explanation
Step 1: Use the conversion factor. 1 hp = 0.7457 kW Step 2: Multiply 1,000 by 0.7457. 1,000 × 0.7457 = 745.7 kW
FAQs on HP to kW
1.How many kW is 1 horsepower?
2.What is 200 hp in kW?
3.Is 100 hp considered high power?
4.How do I convert 50 hp to kW?
Important Glossaries for HP to kW
Conversion: The process of changing one unit of measurement into another. For example, converting horsepower to kilowatts. Power: The rate at which energy is transferred or converted, often measured in watts or kilowatts. Metric System: A decimal-based system of measurement used around the world, including units like meters, liters, and grams. Watt: A unit of power in the International System of Units (SI) equivalent to one joule per second. Horsepower: A unit of power commonly used to measure the power output of engines, equivalent to 746 watts.
Seyed Ali Fathima S
About the Author
Seyed Ali Fathima S a math expert with nearly 5 years of experience as a math teacher. From an engineer to a math teacher, shows her passion for math and teaching. She is a calculator queen, who loves tables and she turns tables to puzzles and songs.
Fun Fact
: She has songs for each table which helps her to remember the tables
