THE INNOVATIVE PROCESS IN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY: AN ANALYSIS OF THE GREAT ABC REGION AUTOMOTIVE CLUSTER

Abstract

This working paper describes the innovative process in the Brazilian automotive industry, taking the Great ABC region as a research object. As a reference for the contemporary industrial organization, the automotive industry stands out as a driving force behind a diversified and complex global production chain. Thus, the industry innovation process mobilizes a strategic set of agents within the industry, with repercussions on the other sectors such as the embedded technology, mobile, among others. This paper results from a qualitative approach supported by a descriptive type of research, outlined by a multiple case study and semi-structured interviews, preceded by a documentary analysis in secondary sources. Locally developed innovations involving agents from the productive chain and in partnership with competitors were identified. Results suggest the practice of open innovation, which was confirmed in field research.