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To convert from Horsepower (metric) (PS) to Watt (W), use the following formula:
Let's convert 5 Horsepower (metric) (PS) to Watt (W).
Using the formula:
Therefore, 5 Horsepower (metric) (PS) is equal to Watt (W).
Here are some quick reference conversions from Horsepower (metric) (PS) to Watt (W):
| Horsepower (metric) | Watts |
|---|---|
| 0.000001 PS | W |
| 0.001 PS | W |
| 0.1 PS | W |
| 1 PS | W |
| 2 PS | W |
| 3 PS | W |
| 4 PS | W |
| 5 PS | W |
| 6 PS | W |
| 7 PS | W |
| 8 PS | W |
| 9 PS | W |
| 10 PS | W |
| 20 PS | W |
| 30 PS | W |
| 40 PS | W |
| 50 PS | W |
| 100 PS | W |
| 1000 PS | W |
| 10000 PS | W |
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.
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.
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:
| Feature | Metric Horsepower (PS) | Mechanical Horsepower (hp) |
|---|---|---|
| Commonly Used In | Europe, Asia | United States, UK |
| Wattage Equivalent | ~735.5 W | ~745.7 W |
| Relation to Each Other | 1 PS ≈ 0.986 hp | 1 hp ≈ 1.014 PS |
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.
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.
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 relationship between power (P), voltage (V), and current (I) is expressed by the simple formula:
P = V × I
Where:
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:
By checking the wattage on your devices, you can get a better sense of which ones use the most power in your home.