How to Calculate Horsepower Converter
What is Horsepower Converter?
Horsepower (hp) is a unit of power originally defined by James Watt to compare steam engine output to horse work. One mechanical horsepower = 745.7 watts. Metric horsepower (CV/PS) = 735.5 watts.
Formula
1 HP = 745.7 W | HP = Torque(lb-ft) × RPM / 5252
- HP
- Horsepower (hp)
- τ
- Torque (lb-ft)
- RPM
- Revolutions Per Minute (rev/min)
Step-by-Step Guide
- 11 HP (mechanical) = 745.7 W
- 21 CV/PS (metric) = 735.5 W
- 3Power (W) = Torque (N·m) × Angular velocity (rad/s)
- 4kW = HP × 0.7457; HP = kW × 1.341
Worked Examples
Input
200 HP engine
Result
149.1 kW or 202.8 CV (metric horsepower)
Input
100 kW electric motor
Result
134.1 HP or 135.9 PS
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called "horsepower"?
James Watt coined the term by measuring how much work a horse could do. One horse could lift 550 pounds 1 foot in 1 second — that became the standard.
Is horsepower the same as torque?
No. Torque is rotational force. Horsepower is the rate at which work is done. A given torque at higher RPM produces more horsepower.
Why do cars list both torque and horsepower?
Torque determines acceleration at a given RPM. Horsepower determines top speed. Both matter for understanding engine performance.
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