kW to PS Calculator
Convert kW to PS instantly. Also convert PS to kW, and see BHP and imperial horsepower conversions for cars, engines, and motors.
Power Conversion Details
Enter a power value to convert between kW, PS, and BHP
Kilowatts, as shown on a V5C logbook or motor nameplate.
Used only to tailor the notes shown with your result.
Typical loss between the crank (PS) and the wheels. Leave at 15% if unsure.
Conversion Results
Your power value across all common units
Enter a power value above, then click Convert Power to see it in kW, PS, BHP, and estimated wheel horsepower.
Common kW to PS Conversions
Use this table as a quick lookup for typical engine and motor power ratings without needing to run the calculator each time.
| Kilowatts (kW) | Metric Horsepower (PS) | Brake Horsepower (BHP) |
|---|---|---|
| 50 kW | 68.0 PS | 67.1 BHP |
| 75 kW | 102.0 PS | 100.6 BHP |
| 100 kW | 136.0 PS | 134.1 BHP |
| 150 kW | 203.9 PS | 201.2 BHP |
| 200 kW | 271.9 PS | 268.2 BHP |
| 300 kW | 407.9 PS | 402.3 BHP |
kW to PS FAQ
Everything you need to know about converting between kilowatts, metric horsepower, and brake horsepower.
To convert kilowatts to metric horsepower (PS), multiply the kW figure by 1.35962. For example, 100 kW is equal to approximately 136.0 PS. PS stands for Pferdestarke, the German term for horsepower, and is the standard metric horsepower unit used across much of Europe.
PS (metric horsepower) is equal to 1 kW multiplied by 1.35962, while BHP (brake horsepower, imperial mechanical horsepower) is equal to 1 kW multiplied by 1.34102. This makes 1 PS slightly smaller than 1 BHP, roughly 0.9863 BHP, so a car rated at 150 PS is marginally less powerful than one rated at 150 BHP.
PS is the traditional horsepower unit used in Germany, France, Italy, Spain, and Japan, so European and Japanese manufacturers often quote engine output in PS in their brochures and technical documents, even though kW is the official SI unit used on UK and EU registration documents.
PS and HP are closely related but not identical. HP typically refers to imperial mechanical horsepower, the same unit as BHP, while PS is the metric horsepower unit. The difference between them is small, about 1.4 percent, but can cause minor discrepancies when comparing specifications quoted in different units.
Most family cars sold in Europe produce between 95 PS and 200 PS, depending on the engine size and whether it is petrol, diesel, hybrid, or electric. Performance and sports cars often exceed 300 PS, while small city cars typically sit closer to 65 to 95 PS.