Mechanical horsepower (HP) is the traditional Imperial/US power unit, equal to 745.7 watts — distinct from the metric horsepower (PS/CV).
The Imperial horsepower James Watt originally defined remains in common use across the US and UK automotive and engine industries instead of metric PS/CV.
Measurement system: Mechanical/Imperial horsepower (non-SI). SI equivalent: 1 HP (mechanical) = 745.7 W.
Horsepower (Mechanical) facts
- Unit name
- Horsepower (Mechanical)
- Symbol
- HP
- Category
- Power
- Measurement system
- Mechanical/Imperial horsepower (non-SI)
- SI equivalent
- 1 HP (mechanical) = 745.7 W
- Common uses
- US/UK vehicle and engine spec sheets, industrial motor nameplates
Definition of the horsepower (mechanical)
Mechanical horsepower (HP) is the traditional Imperial/US power unit, equal to 745.7 watts — distinct from the metric horsepower (PS/CV).
Measurement system and SI relationship
Mechanical/Imperial horsepower (non-SI)
SI equivalent: 1 HP (mechanical) = 745.7 W
History of the horsepower (mechanical)
The Imperial horsepower James Watt originally defined remains in common use across the US and UK automotive and engine industries instead of metric PS/CV.
Where is the horsepower (mechanical) used?
US/UK vehicle and engine spec sheets, industrial motor nameplates