Metric horsepower.
Metric horsepowers to Centiwatts Converter — PS to cW
Convert Metric horsepower (PS) to Centiwatt (cW) using the exact conversion factor (1 metric horsepower = 73,549.875 centiwatt). See the formula, worked examples, conversion table, history, and common uses.
Metric horsepowers to Centiwatts converter
Converter
Engineering Converter
Convert common stress, force, torque, power, and energy units used in engineering.
Context values
Some unit families need one extra value for a physically accurate result.
Centiwatt is 0.01 watt units.
Result = input x 735.49875 / 0.01.
Power units are compatible.
Reserved above the conversion cards and below the converter.
About Converting Metric horsepowers to Centiwatts
Metric horsepower and Centiwatt both measure a quantity used in structural or mechanical engineering — commonly stress, pressure, force, torque, power, or energy — where converting between the unit conventions used in different regions, industries, or equipment specifications is a routine part of design work. Metric horsepower is most often used for european and japanese vehicle engine power ratings (often shown as ps or cv).
Formula
centiwatts = metric horsepowers × 73549.875
This factor comes from each unit's defined relationship to the category's base unit: 1 metric horsepower equals 735.49875 base units, and 1 centiwatt equals 0.01 base units, so dividing one by the other gives the direct metric horsepower-to-centiwatt factor of 73549.875.
Simple example
1 PS × 73549.875 = 73,549.875 cW
1 metric horsepower = 73,549.875 centiwatts.
Real-world example
100 PS × 73549.875 = 7,354,987.5 cW
100 metric horsepowers = 7,354,987.5 centiwatts.
Conversion table
| Metric horsepower (PS) | Centiwatt (cW) |
|---|---|
| 1 PS | 73,549.875 cW |
| 10 PS | 735,498.75 cW |
| 50 PS | 3,677,493.75 cW |
| 100 PS | 7,354,987.5 cW |
| 500 PS | 36,774,937.5 cW |
| 1,000 PS | 73,549,875 cW |
Reverse conversion: Centiwatt to Metric horsepower
1 cW × 0.00001359621617 = 0.0000135962 PS
1 centiwatt = 0.0000135962 metric horsepowers.
metric horsepowers = centiwatts × 0.000013596216173
For a page dedicated to this direction, see Centiwatt to Metric horsepower.
Understanding the Metric horsepower
Metric horsepower (PS) measures power. Metric horsepower (PS/CV) is defined as exactly 735.49875 watts, the power to raise 75 kilograms one meter per second. It is classified as a Non-SI unit (metric, automotive).
Where it's used: Continental Europe, Japan, and other metric-system automotive markets
Uses of the Metric horsepower today
- European and Japanese vehicle engine power ratings (often shown as PS or CV)
- Motor and machinery power specifications in metric countries
History of the Metric horsepower
Metric horsepower emerged in continental Europe in the 19th century as engineers sought a metric-system analog to Watt's English horsepower, defining it via a round figure (75 kgf·m/s) convenient in metric calculations. It remains the standard automotive power unit across much of Europe and Asia, labeled PS (German 'Pferdestärke') or CV (French/Italian 'cheval-vapeur').
Historical origin. Metric horsepower was not the invention of a single named person; it developed through the process described above.
Understanding the Centiwatt (cW)
Centiwatt is 0.01 watt units.
Metric horsepower — sources
- NIST Special Publication 811 — Documents the exact watt-equivalence of metric horsepower.
Reserved between the cards and the FAQ so the page stays balanced.
Frequently asked questions
How many centiwatts are in 1 metric horsepower?
1 metric horsepower equals 73,549.875 centiwatts, using the exact defined conversion factor rather than an estimate.
How do I convert metric horsepower to centiwatt?
Multiply the metric horsepower value by 73549.875. The converter above does this instantly to whatever precision you set.
How do I convert centiwatt back to metric horsepower?
Use the reverse factor: 1 centiwatt equals 0.0000135962 metric horsepowers. You can also use the swap control in the converter above to flip the direction instantly.
What is a metric horsepower?
Metric horsepower (PS) measures power. Metric horsepower (PS/CV) is defined as exactly 735.49875 watts, the power to raise 75 kilograms one meter per second. It is classified as a Non-SI unit (metric, automotive).
What is a centiwatt?
Centiwatt (cW) is a unit of engineering.
Is the metric horsepower to centiwatt conversion exact?
Yes. Metric horsepower (PS/CV) is defined as exactly 735.49875 watts, the power to raise 75 kilograms one meter per second. That fixed definition is what the converter above uses, so any rounding you see is a display choice, not a limitation of the math.
Where is the metric horsepower still used today?
Continental Europe, Japan, and other metric-system automotive markets
Why do engineering unit conventions vary so much by region and industry?
Pressure, force, and stress can be expressed in metric (pascal, newton), US customary (psi, pound-force), or older and industry-specific units (atmosphere, torr, kip) depending on the country, industry, and even the equipment manufacturer, which is why engineers routinely need to convert between them when working across specs from different sources.