Velocity and Distance: Converting MPH to KMH for Travel & Trade

Speed limit signs and vehicle dashboards can be confusing when traveling between countries. A driver crossing the border from the United States into Canada, or importing a vehicle from the UK, must translate speed limits instantly to avoid traffic tickets.

Let's look at the two speed standards used globally and how to convert between them.

The Global Speed Divide

• MPH (Miles per Hour): An imperial unit of speed expressing the number of statute miles traveled in one hour. It is used in the United States, the United Kingdom, and several island nations.
• KMH (Kilometers per Hour): A metric unit of speed expressing the number of kilometers traveled in one hour. It is the standard measurement in the rest of the world, including Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

The Mathematics of Speed Conversion

A mile is longer than a kilometer:

• 1 Mile is equal to exactly 1.609344 Kilometers.
• 1 Kilometer is equal to approximately 0.621371 Miles.

To convert speed measurements:

• MPH to KMH: Multiply the speed value by 1.609344.
• KMH to MPH: Multiply the speed value by 0.621371 (or divide by 1.609344).

To convert values for dashboards or travel itineraries, use our free Unit Converter to get instant conversions.