[stingraycharles]

Playing the devil’s advocate: what’s preventing them from claiming the tractor itself as IP as well, and licensing it as such? Eg you’re not allowed to change your own tires. Would such a thing be legally possible, and if not, why does this differ from the firmware?

[ISL]

Deere could absolutely rent tractors to farmers -- it would be a different economic calculus. It is unclear what kind of pricing would entice farmers to rent rather than buy.

[SteveGerencser]

Most manufacturers already do this with fluids. You are required to use their oil and oil filters or you 'may' void the drivetrain warranty. We just bought a new tractor last spring and this is part of the new deal when it comes to purchasing a new tractor.