Kilowatts to Horsepower Converter
Enter a value to instantly convert between power units.
1 Kilowatt = 1.341 Horsepower (mech)
Key Formulas
Kilowatt → Horsepower (mech)
hp = kW × 1.34102Horsepower (mech) → Kilowatt
kW = hp × 0.7457Watt → Kilowatt
kW = W × 0.001Kilowatt → Watt
W = kW × 1000Formula
hp = kW × 1.34102Electric vehicles and modern motors are rated in kilowatts, but many buyers, mechanics, and spec sheets still think in horsepower. When you see a 150 kW EV motor and want to know how it compares to a 200 hp gasoline car, this conversion gives you the answer immediately. Industrial motor selection catalogues often cross-reference both units, and pumping system designers routinely convert kW drive ratings to hp for legacy system compatibility.
Source: NIST SP 811, Table B.8
Last reviewed: · see our methodology
Frequently Asked Questions
Real-World Examples
A 150 kW electric vehicle motor = 201 hp — comparable to a mid-range performance sedan engine, with full torque available from zero RPM.
150 kW = 201.2 hp
A 74.6 kW industrial motor = exactly 100 hp — a standard frame size for pumps and compressors in North American facilities.
74.6 kW = 100 hp
A 250 kW diesel generator set at rated output = 335 hp — typical for a standby power system serving a mid-size building.
250 kW = 335.3 hp
A 37.3 kW electric motor = 50 hp, the standard rating for medium-duty conveyor drives and agricultural irrigation pumps.
37.3 kW = 50 hp