Convert watts to horsepower (HP): formula and table
Convert watts to horsepower (CV/HP) for automotive and industry. Formula, table and commented examples.
Published on January 23, 2026Converting watts to horsepower is fundamental in the automotive industry, electrical engineering and mechanics. Two systems coexist: the metric horsepower (CV, 735.499 W) and the mechanical horsepower (HP, 745.7 W).
Understanding the conversion
The metric horsepower (used in Europe for cars) equals 735.499 watts. The mechanical horsepower (used in the United States) equals 745.7 watts. To convert watts to metric CV, divide by 735.499.
📐 Formula
📊 Conversion table
| Watts (W) | Metric CV | Mechanical HP | Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 735 | 1 | 0.99 | 1 metric CV |
| 745.7 | 1.01 | 1 | 1 mechanical HP |
| 1000 | 1.36 | 1.34 | 1 kW |
| 5000 | 6.80 | 6.71 | 5 kW |
| 73500 | 99.93 | 98.56 | 100 CV |
| 147000 | 199.9 | 197.1 | 200 CV |
| 220000 | 299.1 | 295.0 | 300 CV |
💡 Practical examples
110,000 ÷ 735.499 ≈ 149.6 CV. A 110 kW engine develops approximately 150 metric horsepower.
1,000 ÷ 735.499 ≈ 1.36 CV. A small 1 kW electric motor equals 1.36 metric CV.
373,000 ÷ 735.499 ≈ 507 CV. An American 500 HP supercar corresponds to approximately 507 metric CV.