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Watts to Metric Horsepower (PS) Converter

Enter a value to instantly convert between power units.

Precision4 dp

1 Watt = 0.0014 Horsepower (metric)

Key Formulas

Kilowatt → Horsepower (mech)

hp = kW × 1.34102

Horsepower (mech) → Kilowatt

kW = hp × 0.7457

Watt → Kilowatt

kW = W × 0.001

Kilowatt → Watt

W = kW × 1000

Formula

PS = W ÷ 735.49875

European automotive manufacturers — particularly German brands — rate engine output in PS (Pferdestarke, 'horse strength'). When you're looking at a European car's watt or kilowatt rating and need to express it in PS for an audience familiar with that unit, or when comparing equipment specifications across markets, this conversion bridges the gap. Unlike mechanical horsepower (hp = 745.7 W), metric PS is defined as exactly 75 kg·m/s = 735.49875 W.

Source: NIST SP 811, Table B.8

Last reviewed: · see our methodology

Frequently Asked Questions

Real-World Examples

A 73,550 W (73.55 kW) European compact car engine is rated 100 PS — a common benchmark for small family cars in Europe.

73550 W = 100 PS

A sports car producing 147,100 W = 200 PS (equivalent to about 197 mechanical hp) for international market comparison.

147100 W = 200 PS

Exactly 735.5 W = 1 PS — the SI definition of one metric horsepower as 75 kilogram-force metres per second.

735 W = 1 PS

A 36,775 W motorcycle engine = 50 PS, typical for a mid-range European sport motorcycle.

36775 W = 50 PS