Announced in 2011, the 56th pit, created by the Automobile Club de l'Ouest, is intended for a prototype with innovative technology, racing outside classification. In 2012 the Nissan DeltaWing generated great interest with strong performances on the track. In just a year and a half, the 56th pit concept has already proved its promise, with the GreenGT H2 expected in 2013 and Nissan in 2014.

2011, three cars for one place. Three projects were announced for the opening of the 56th pit project in 2012 to coincide with the 80th edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans: the DeltaWing, the GreenGT H2 hydrogen powered car and the 100% electric prototype of Yves Courage, chassis manufacturer of the Cougar chassis in 1982, renamed Courage in 1993. It was ultimately the DeltaWing that was invited.

2012, first occupant first success. Officially launched in March in the United States at the 12 Hours of Sebring and now benefiting from a partnership with a major manufacturer, the Nissan DeltaWing landed at Le Mans. It derives its originality of its shape and its philosophy of "downsizing" reduced size, weight, power and aerodynamic drag but maintaining speed. It also relies on a traditional internal combustion engine, which it seems is still holding its own against hybrid and electric technologies. The Nissan DeltaWing lapped the circuit of the 24 hours on a pace that put it in the middle of the LM P2 prototypes. During the race, it was forced to retire on Saturday evening, but showed the media its promise. At the same time, the Automobile Club de l'Ouest announced the award at the 56th pit to the GreenGT H2 for the 24 Hours of Le Mans 2013.
 

2013, it's already 2014 ! While GreenGT H2 is actively preparing for the 90th anniversary edition of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Nissan has announced its intention to occupy the 56th pit in 2014, with a prototype that will make extensive use of electric power. A laboratory as well as technological showcase, the 56th pit seduced the charismatic Carlos Ghosn, chief executive of Renault-Nissan. Mission accomplished for the ACO: the 56th stand has already become indispensable, but its story is just beginning ...

The 90th anniversary 24 Hours of Le Mans is on the 22nd and 23rd June. 

Jean-Philippe Doret

Photo : 56th pit of the CIRCUIT DES 24 HEURES (LE MANS, SARTHE), TEST DAY OF THE 24 HOURS OF LE MANS, 3rd JUNE 2012. The Nissan DeltaWing, takes to the track while the Automobile Club de l'Ouest announces its successor, the GreenGT H2 in 2013.