Google is running a "limited trial" of a new carpooling service that will connect drivers on their way to work with potential riders.

The new application, called RideWith, will use Waze's navigation system to learn the routes drivers most frequently take to work and match them up with people looking for a ride in the same direction.

Google bought Israel-based Waze, which uses satellite signals from members' smartphones to offer real-time traffic information, for about US$1 billion two years ago. Google noted that it’s just a trial for now, with no suggestion of imminent launches in other countries, and drivers are blocked from offering more than two rides per day.

Waze does not expect there to be enough drivers to meet demand at first, but as more sign on, passengers will be able to order a ride either to or from work while chipping in a bit for the cost of gas and wear and tear on the car.