The 83rd edition of the Le Mans 24 Hours began at 15:00.

Paul-Loup Chatin started the round-the-clock race behind the wheel of the Alpine A450b run by Signatech-Alpine.

Following the opening hour, the N°36 entry lies sixth amongst the LMP2 class contenders. Nelson Panciatici and Vincent Capillaire are preparing to take to the track over the forthcoming hours.

A podium finisher in the LMP2 class last year, the Alpine A450b has taken the start of the 2015 Le Mans 24 Hours today.

After posting the team’s fastest lap time during qualifying, Paul-Loup Chatin is in the car for the race’s opening stint.

Having lined up fifth on the grid amongst the LMP2 contenders, the Frenchman went a lap longer than the class leaders prior to making his first refuelling stop.

He currently occupies sixth position in-class and 15th overall after the first hour of racing.

Philippe Sinault, Signatech-Alpine Team Principal: “We have begun the race in a very solid rhythm and everything is going to plan. Our strategy enabled us to stay out a lap longer than our main rivals before pitting. It has been an encouraging start.”