Kilowatt (kW)

Definition

One thousand watts — the metric unit for engine and appliance power.

History

The kilowatt is one thousand watts, a metric multiple of the SI power unit. It gives practical numbers for engines and appliances.

Where it is used

Kilowatts rate car engines outside the United States, large appliances and electric-vehicle charging.

Typical uses include car engines outside the US, appliances, EV charging.

Conversion pages

These pages convert kilowatt to or from another unit in power.

• Kilowatt to horsepower

Other Power units

• Horsepower (hp)
• Watt (W)
• Megawatt (MW)
• Metric horsepower (PS)
• BTU per hour (BTU/h)

Sources

• NIST SP 811 NIST SP 811, App. B (power). Mechanical hp = 550 ft·lbf/s ≈ 745.70 W; metric hp (PS) = 75 kgf·m/s = 735.49875 W · Dataset reviewed Nov 11, 2026