General

What Is Horsepower?

Inside view of engine cylinders, pistons and valves.

Horsepower (hp) is a measurement of the kinetic energy produced by an engine and is used to describe the engine’s ability to do work. Horsepower describes the engine’s capability to accelerate a vehicle and keep it moving despite gravity, wind, and friction resistance. One hp = 745 watts. You calculate engine horsepower with a dynamometer by measuring the engine’s torque output (in lb-ft), multiplying it by the engine’s revolutions per minute (rpm), and dividing by 5,252.