Convert Power from Horsepower (metric) to Watts (PS to W)

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Horsepower (metric) to Watt Conversion Formula

To convert from Horsepower (metric) (PS) to Watt (W), use the following formula:

Watt (W)

= 735.49875× Horsepower (metric) (PS)


Example

Let's convert 5 Horsepower (metric) (PS) to Watt (W).

Using the formula:

5 × 735.49875 = 3677.49375

Therefore, 5 Horsepower (metric) (PS) is equal to 3677.49375 Watt (W).

How many horsepower (metric) are in one watt? One Watt (W) contains 0.0013596216173039043234 Horsepower (metric) (PS) — the inverse of the factor above. Multiplying by 735.49875 takes you from horsepower (metric) to watts; multiplying by 0.0013596216173039043234 brings you back.

Put in words: one horsepower (metric) equals 735.49875 watts, so the horsepower (metric) is the larger unit of this pair. Converting between them never changes the amount of power being measured — only the size of the unit you count it in.

What is Metric Horsepower (PS)?

Metric horsepower, often abbreviated as PS, is a common unit used to measure the power of an engine, especially for cars and motorcycles from Europe and Asia.

If you have ever looked at car specifications from a German or Japanese brand, you have likely seen this term.

Defined within the metric system, it is the power needed to lift a 75-kilogram mass one meter vertically in one second.

In more technical terms, one metric horsepower is precisely equal to 735.49875 watts (W). This standard is essential for accurately comparing the power of different engines, particularly when dealing with international vehicle specifications.


Where Does the Abbreviation "PS" Come From?

The abbreviation "PS" comes from the German word Pferdestärke, which literally translates to "horse strength" or horsepower.

This term originated in 19th-century Germany and quickly became the standard for measuring automotive power across much of Europe and Asia. Its widespread adoption reflects the metric system's dominance in those regions for scientific and industrial measurements.


What's the Difference Between Metric (PS) and Mechanical (hp) Horsepower?

While they sound almost identical, metric horsepower (PS) is not the same as the mechanical horsepower (hp) commonly used in the United States and the UK.

The key difference lies in their wattage equivalent. This small but important distinction is critical when you want to compare vehicle performance specifications from different markets accurately.

For example, a car advertised with 200 PS has slightly less power than a car advertised with 200 hp.

Here's a simple breakdown of the differences:

FeatureMetric Horsepower (PS)Mechanical Horsepower (hp)
Commonly Used InEurope, AsiaUnited States, UK
Wattage Equivalent~735.5 W~745.7 W
Relation to Each Other1 PS ≈ 0.986 hp1 hp ≈ 1.014 PS

What is a Watt (W)?

A watt (W) is the basic unit of power used to measure the rate of energy transfer.

In simple terms, it tells you how much energy a device uses per second. For example, a 60-watt light bulb uses 60 joules of energy every second.

In electrical systems, the formula is Watts = Volts × Amps.


Who is the Watt Named After?

The unit of power, the watt (W), is named in honor of James Watt, an 18th-century Scottish inventor and engineer.

His groundbreaking improvements to the steam engine were a key part of the Industrial Revolution. Naming the unit after him honors his major contributions to energy science.


How is a Watt Calculated?

Formally, a watt is defined as the rate of energy transfer equal to one joule per second.

In electrical systems, one watt is the power produced when a current of one ampere (A) flows through an electrical potential difference of one volt (V).

This fundamental relationship is a cornerstone of electrical engineering.

The Power Formula

The relationship between power (P), voltage (V), and current (I) is expressed by the simple formula:

P = V × I

Where:

  • P is Power in Watts
  • V is Voltage in Volts
  • I is Current in Amperes

What are Some Examples of Watts in Everyday Life?

Understanding watts helps you see how much energy your common devices consume.

This is essential for comparing the energy efficiency of appliances and understanding your electricity bill. Here are some practical examples:

  • An efficient LED light bulb: 9 Watts
  • A large flat-screen TV: 150 Watts
  • A laptop computer (while charging): 65 Watts
  • A microwave oven: 1000+ Watts (or 1 kilowatt)

By checking the wattage on your devices, you can get a better sense of which ones use the most power in your home.

Horsepower (metric) to Watt Conversion Table

Here are some quick reference conversions from Horsepower (metric) (PS) to Watt (W):

Horsepower (metric)Watts
0.000001 PS0.00073549875 W
0.001 PS0.73549875 W
0.1 PS73.549875 W
1 PS735.49875 W
2 PS1470.9975 W
3 PS2206.49625 W
4 PS2941.995 W
5 PS3677.49375 W
6 PS4412.9925 W
7 PS5148.49125 W
8 PS5883.99 W
9 PS6619.48875 W
10 PS7354.9875 W
20 PS14709.975 W
30 PS22064.9625 W
40 PS29419.95 W
50 PS36774.9375 W
100 PS73549.875 W
1000 PS735498.75 W
10000 PS7354987.5 W