Today, clustering is one of the key areas for the development of a new economy focused on innovative and social development. Since 2009, the cluster approach has been one of the main tools for creating a strong regional economy for the Kaluga region. But it is not immediately possible to understand what a cluster is and what can be called that word. The article discusses the concept of “cluster” from various points of view, forms common features inherent in the cluster and reveals whether the auto industry of the Kaluga Region is suitable for these conditions. In continuation of the topic, the article examines the current state of the automotive segment of the Kaluga Region, identifies priority areas for the development of the automotive industry, taking into account the possibilities of state support, and also touches on the possibility of digitalization of the segment as a key transformation of the economic model of the region and the country as a whole.