THEORETICAL–METHODICAL AND APPLIED ASPECTS OF IMPLEMENTATION OF CLUSTER INITIATIVES IN THE AUTOMOTIVE SUBSECTOR OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

The article is devoted to the study of theoretical-methodical and applied aspects of implementation of cluster initiatives in the automotive subsector of mechanical engineering. The essential characteristic of the automotive cluster is specified. The advantages of cluster formation in the system of national economy are revealed. The world experience of functioning of automobile clusters (on the example of the USA, Germany, Brazil and China) is reviewed. The most common models of implementation of cluster initiatives are studied and the expediency of using a model based on public-private partnership in Ukraine is substantiated. The automotive subsector of mechanical engineering has been identified as a priority for the implementation of cluster initiatives in Ukraine. The projects of the Central automobile cluster and the West automobile cluster have been proposed as pilot projects for the creation of automobile clusters in Ukraine. An integrated assessment of the competitiveness of the proposed Central automotive cluster and West automotive cluster was performed, which revealed that both potential cluster formations are characterized by an average level of competitiveness. The results of expert evaluation of the proposed Central automotive cluster and West automotive cluster are summarized according to the criteria: «Internationalization», «Employment and skills development», «Innovation and improvement», «Critical mass and environment / Cooperation mechanisms», «Set of tools and mechanisms». According to the results of expert evaluation of potential automotive clusters, the conclusion on expediency of realization of the cluster initiative of creation of the West automobile cluster in the automotive subsector of mechanical engineering of Ukraine is made. Attention is paid to highlighting the position of practitioners (potential participants of the West automotive cluster) on the need to create a West automotive cluster and obstacles to the implementation of this cluster initiative in Ukraine.