metric horsepower

**metric horsepower**

Metric horsepower (often abbreviated as “PS” from the German term “Pferdestärke”) is a unit of power commonly used to measure the output of engines, especially in Europe and various other countries. One metric horsepower is defined as exactly 735.5 watts, which is slightly less than the mechanical horsepower used primarily in the United States (approximately 745.7 watts). This unit is widely used in automotive specifications, engine performance ratings, and other mechanical contexts where engine power is described. Understanding metric horsepower helps in comparing engine outputs across different measurement standards.