I think if we’re comparing gas prices in different countries, a lot more parameters also needs to be considered. Like the quality and quantity of alternative transportation. Most of the US don’t have a good public transportation system that people could easily use as an alternative or that people prefer to use in general. Not being able to drive or afford gas could drastically lower your opportunities in a lot of the US.

It's good to check in with other countries. Quality and quantity of alternative transportation is influenced by gas prices.

Development of the US highway system changed how towns and transportation were organized just like I'm sure $9 US gas prices would do the same. After all, the current situation (in both US and Norway) are partly a result of specific choices the respective governments chose to invest and tax over decades.

That’s a great point. I’d be curious to know how much gas prices influenced the infrastructure of countries with great alternative transportation versus other influences.

I think for the US, maybe this would have worked before the era of electric vehicles but now, it also influence adoption of electric vehicles more if those prices stay competitive, rather than public transport and walkability. Which is still a lot better than gas vehicles imo.

How much of that is tax?

Hmm. Let's see:

* "Veibruksavgift": 4.95 NOK/liter

* CO2 tax: 1.78 NOK/liter

* VAT: 20%

Not sure how to properly translate "veibruksavgift." Directly translated, it's "road usage tax", so I guess that's close enough. :)

in 2007-2008, it was costly, but driving was rather peaceful and nice to have to drive to work for once. When the price came down, the assholes came out.

Spring 2020 the roads were empty. I could plan travel times to job sites based on miles to drive. And a gallon was a dollar and change.