Tilta has launched a new accessory designed for mounting a camera or shock absorber system to a vehicle – the Hydra Electronic Suction Cup.
This innovative suction cup features a built-in battery that automatically removes air to create maximum suction pressure, supporting a payload capacity of up to 20kg.
Historical Context
In the past, attaching a camera to a moving vehicle was both complicated and expensive, requiring a significant amount of equipment. With the advent of lightweight cinema and mirrorless cameras, the process has become much simpler. Various options are now available depending on the camera system’s weight, ranging from single suction cup systems like the Kessler Lamprey to heavy-duty systems with multiple suction cups such as the RigWheels Kraken.
Stabilization Options
For follow-up shots and enhanced stabilization, isolation systems can be attached to a car using suction cups. Systems like the lightweight Movmax Blade Arm and the Tilta Hydra Alien car mounting system are popular choices. However, these systems depend on traditional suction cups, which require frequent air pumping to maintain pressure and ensure a secure attachment to the vehicle.
Hydra Electronic Suction Cup Features
The Hydra Electronic Suction Cup addresses this issue with a clever solution borrowed from the construction and tiling industries. The base of this suction cup weighs 350 g (0.77 lbs) and measures 146 x 146 x 54.5mm (5.75 x 5.75 x 2.15 inches). Constructed from plastic, rubber, and silicone, it avoids scratching the vehicle’s surface.
A built-in 2000mAh battery, rechargeable via USB-C and supporting 10W USB-C external power, provides up to 24 hours of continuous use. The device activates with a press of the red button on the suction cup, and an LCD screen displays battery status, suction cup strength, and motor status.
Once attached to a vehicle, the Hydra Electronic Suction Cup monitors air pressure up to a thousand times per second. If a leak is detected, it automatically pumps the air out and adjusts the pressure for optimal safety. The suction cup can handle a maximum vertical payload of 20kg (44 lbs).
Mounting Brackets
The Hydra Electronic Suction Cup features multiple mounting points for different brackets. At launch, Tilta offers three options:
- A mounting bracket with Tilta’s Hydra Alien M25 thread for upgrading existing Hydra Alien suction cups.
- A NATO rail option with 1/4″-20 and 3/8″-16 mounting points.
- The Universal Multi-Mount bracket, which includes a cold shoe mount, a rosette mount, 1/4″-20 and 3/8″-16 mounting points, and a small NATO rail.
Pricing and Availability
The Tilta Hydra Electronic Suction Cup is available now. The suction cup alone starts at $78, while the NATO and Multi-Functional versions are priced at $104, and the Hydra M25 model costs $116.
About Tilta
Tilta, founded in 2010, specializes in high-quality photography and cinematography equipment. Initially focusing on accessory kits for DSLRs, Tilta has expanded to support industry-leading cinema cameras. Their product lineup includes wireless lens control systems, camera cages, gimbal support systems, and shock-absorbing car mounts
