Question 1

How do I convert horsepower to kilowatts?

Accepted Answer

Mechanical HP × 0.746 = kW. Metric HP × 0.736 = kW. Example: 150 HP = 112 kW (mechanical) or 110 kW (metric).

Question 2

Why do electric cars use kW instead of HP?

Accepted Answer

Electric motors are rated in kW because power is directly calculated from voltage × current. Electric car buyers think in kW for charging, so motor power in kW makes sense. 100 kW ≈ 134 HP.

Question 3

What's the difference between mechanical and electrical horsepower?

Accepted Answer

Mechanical HP (550 ft·lb/s) = 745.7W. Electrical HP = 746W. Metric HP (PS) = 735.5W. Boiler HP = 9810W. Different industries defined their own standards.

Question 4

How do I size a motor or generator?

Accepted Answer

Calculate peak power needs, add 20-25% safety margin. Consider duty cycle - continuous vs intermittent use affects sizing differently.

Horsepower to Kilowatts Converter

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