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How to Convert a Motor From kW to HP

Regardless of the technology -- gasoline, diesel or electric -- all motors develop power. Especially for units made outside the U.S., manufacturers publish ratings in terms of kilowatts (kW), the metric system unit for power. You may find it more helpful to have power units in horsepower (HP) for comparing different models on the same basis. Fortunately, a simple calculation converts kW to HP. An equally simple calculation converts HP to kW.

Things You'll Need

Calculator

Instructions

Convert kW to HP
- 1
  Enter the kW number into your calculator. Press the multiply key.
- 2
  Enter the number 1.3408.
- 3
  Press the equals key. The result is in horsepower. For example, 120 kW * 1.3408 = 160.9 horsepower.
Convert HP to kW
- 4
  Enter the horsepower number into your calculator. Press the multiply key.
- 5
  Enter the number .7458.
- 6
  Press the equals key. The result is in kilowatts. For example, 160.9 HP * .7458 = 119.999 kW, or 120 kW after rounding.

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