kW to HP Converter

Convert kilowatts to horsepower instantly, and back. 1 kW = 1.341 hp (mechanical) or 1.36 PS (metric).

Kilowatts (kW)

Metric horsepower (PS / ch)

Horsepower (hp)

Type a value in any field, the others update.

Enter a power value

kW to hp conversion table

hp = kW × 1.341 (exactly 1.34102). The other way: kW = hp × 0.7457. European specs use metric horsepower (PS): PS = kW × 1.36.

Example: the Porsche 911 GT3 RS is rated at 386 kW, which is 518 hp (525 PS). The BMW M3 CS: 405 kW, 543 hp (550 PS).

How many hp is 1 kW?

1 kW equals 1.341 mechanical horsepower (hp), or 1.36 metric horsepower (PS).

What is the difference between hp and PS?

Mechanical horsepower (hp) is 745.7 W. Metric horsepower (PS, ch, cv) is 735.5 W, so 100 kW is 134 hp but 136 PS.

Why do European cars show more horsepower?

European brands quote metric PS, which is about 1.4% smaller than US hp. The same engine shows a slightly bigger number in PS.

How do I convert hp to kW?

Multiply horsepower by 0.7457. For example, 500 hp × 0.7457 = 373 kW.