After a childhood in Britain and Brazil, Elkann earned a scientific baccalaureate ... away from limelight -- unlike his younger brother Lapo -- but proved himself very hands on.

The automaking giant behind Jeep, Ram, and Chrysler has a new leader at the helm: John Elkann, heir to one of ... natural responsibility for his brother Lapo and sister Ginevra.

Elkann--known as Jaki within the family--has led a striking turnaround: He stabilized Fiat and oversaw the successful investment in Chrysler, and has reorganized the far-flung family empire.