Kilowatts vs Horsepower: Understanding Power in Electric Watercraft

By the ROXEN Team · Updated July 2026

TL;DR: Kilowatts (kW) are the standard power unit for electric watercraft. 1 kW equals 1.34 horsepower, so the ROXEN's 22 kW motor delivers about 30 hp, but with instant torque and consistent power that petrol engines can't match. Power (kW) tells you how strong the motor is; energy (kWh) tells you how far you can go. The ROXEN's 5.25 kWh battery gives up to 75 minutes of ride time and recharges from any 230V outlet in approx. 2.5 to 3 hours.

Understanding Kilowatts: What Power Really Means for Electric Watercraft

In the boating world, we've traditionally talked about horsepower. But as the industry shifts toward electrification, it's time to get familiar with a new standard: kilowatts (kW).

If you're curious about the future of watercraft, or already looking to make the switch, understanding kilowatts is key to making smart decisions around performance, range, and power.

Kilowatts vs Horsepower: What's the Difference?

Horsepower (hp) measures peak power, typically at high RPMs in combustion engines. Kilowatts (kW) is the standard unit of power in the electric world.

1 kilowatt = 1.34 horsepower

But here's the catch: electric motors, like the one in the ROXEN, deliver instant torque, smoother acceleration, and maintain power more consistently than traditional engines. So even if the numbers look similar, the riding experience is radically different.

The ROXEN's electric motor outputs 22 kW of peak power, equivalent to about 30 hp, but delivers that power in a way that feels quicker, quieter, and cleaner.

Quick conversion guide

• 10 kW ≈ 13 hp
• 22 kW ≈ 30 hp (the ROXEN)
• 50 kW ≈ 67 hp
• 100 kW ≈ 134 hp

Power vs Energy: How Long Can You Ride?

These two terms are often mixed up, but the difference is simple:

• Power (kW) tells you how strong the motor is.
• Energy (kWh) tells you how far you can go.

The ROXEN features a 5.25 kWh swappable battery pack, which provides up to 75 minutes of typical ride time or 15 to 20 nautical miles (25 to 30 km) in range, depending on speed and conditions.

• Want speed? The ROXEN can hit 30 knots (55 km/h).
• Cruising more casually? Expect optimal efficiency at 15 to 20 knots.
• Charging? Plug it into a standard 230V outlet and you'll be fully recharged in approx. 2.5 to 3 hours.

Why ROXEN Uses Kilowatts, and Why You Should Too

We believe in precision, simplicity, and smarter boating. Kilowatts offer a clearer picture of performance, especially for electric systems:

• Better understanding of real-world energy usage
• Easier comparison between electric models
• Clearer range expectations based on riding style
• Smarter planning for private or rental use

And thanks to smart features like geofencing, app control, GPS tracking, and over-the-air updates, the ROXEN gives you full control of every kilowatt, whether you're managing one craft or an entire fleet.

Why It Matters: The Future Runs on Kilowatts

Horsepower might feel familiar, but kilowatts are the future, especially when you want clean, quiet, and powerful rides with zero emissions and full digital control.

With the ROXEN's 22 kW electric motor, modular 5.25 kWh battery, and seamless smart integration, you get a next-generation watercraft experience that's fast, safe, and future-ready.

An added bonus: in many European countries, motor power is what decides whether you need a licence. Read our licence guide 2026 to see what applies where you ride.

FAQ: Kilowatts and Electric Watercraft

How many horsepower is 22 kW?

22 kW equals about 30 horsepower. But because electric motors deliver instant torque, a 22 kW electric watercraft feels more responsive than a 30 hp petrol equivalent.

What is the difference between kW and kWh?

kW (kilowatts) measures power, or how strong the motor is. kWh (kilowatt hours) measures energy, or how much the battery holds. The ROXEN has a 22 kW motor and a 5.25 kWh battery.

How long does the ROXEN battery last on the water?

Up to 75 minutes of typical riding, or 15 to 20 nautical miles depending on speed and conditions. The swappable battery recharges in approx. 2.5 to 3 hours on a standard 230V outlet.

Do I need a licence for a 22 kW electric watercraft?

It depends on the country. Many European countries set licence thresholds based on motor power in kW. See our complete licence guide for country-by-country rules.

Ready to rethink what power means on the water? Explore the ROXEN.