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RWHP Formula:
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Rear Wheel Horsepower (RWHP) is the actual power measured at the wheels of a vehicle. It represents the usable power that propels the vehicle forward, after accounting for drivetrain losses.
The calculator uses the RWHP formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the actual power delivered to the wheels by accounting for power losses through the transmission, driveshaft, differential, and other drivetrain components.
Details: Calculating RWHP is essential for performance tuning, comparing vehicle performance, and understanding the actual power available for acceleration. It provides a more accurate measure of a vehicle's real-world performance than flywheel horsepower alone.
Tips: Enter flywheel horsepower in hp and drivetrain efficiency as a decimal (e.g., 0.85 for 85% efficiency). Typical efficiency values range from 0.75-0.90 depending on drivetrain type and condition.
Q1: What's the difference between FHP and RWHP?
A: FHP (Flywheel Horsepower) is the power measured at the engine's crankshaft, while RWHP (Rear Wheel Horsepower) is the power actually delivered to the wheels after drivetrain losses.
Q2: What are typical drivetrain efficiency values?
A: Rear-wheel drive vehicles typically have 80-85% efficiency, front-wheel drive 85-90%, and all-wheel drive 75-85% depending on the system complexity.
Q3: Why is RWHP lower than FHP?
A: RWHP is lower due to power losses in the transmission, driveshaft, differential, wheel bearings, and other drivetrain components.
Q4: How can I improve drivetrain efficiency?
A: Regular maintenance, high-quality lubricants, lightweight components, and proper alignment can help improve drivetrain efficiency.
Q5: Is RWHP the same as WHP?
A: Yes, RWHP (Rear Wheel Horsepower) is essentially the same as WHP (Wheel Horsepower), though WHP is a more general term that can apply to any wheel configuration.