Convert Kilowatt (kW) (kw) to Horsepower (metric) (hp)
Category: Power
0.5 kw = 0.679811 hp
High-precision rounding: 6 decimals
How to convert kilowatt (kw) to horsepower (metric)
We convert by pivoting through the SI base unit for Power and applying exact factors where applicable.
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Examples
Linear unit conversions use standardized factors; many are exact by definition (e.g., 1 in = 25.4 mm, 1 ft = 0.3048 m).
Common mistakes
- Mixing metric horsepower with mechanical horsepower; prefer kW for consistency.
About Power
Power is the rate of energy transfer (J/s). Watts and kilowatts dominate, with horsepower used historically in vehicles and machinery. Choosing kW vs hp is often a matter of audience and regulation.
About Kilowatt (kW)
Kilowatt (kW)
Equals 1,000 W. Typical scale for motors, EV chargers, and household peak loads.
History: Scaled SI multiple that fits common machinery and grid discussions.
About Horsepower (metric)
Horsepower (metric)
≈735.49875 W. Still appears in automotive marketing; converts cleanly to kW for regulatory specs.
History: Term popularized by James Watt to relate engine output to draft horses; multiple HP variants exist (metric, mechanical, boiler).
Related conversions from kw
- kw → w Watt (W)
Related conversions to hp
- w → hp Watt (W)