People could be using their mobiles to fill up seats in their car or get lifts from passing motorists, under a system being researched by academics.
In the new lift-sharing system, car owners would upload their details to a database. Those seeking a lift would be able to access the database, check location via GPS, and request a lift.
And by linking with social networking sites, the technology might even match people up according to their interests and preferences - such as what they like to listen to in the car.
Although many local authorities already run lift-share schemes, the new research promises a more immediate and much more customisable service.
It is being developed by researchers at Nottingham University, which along with Newcastle and Aberdeen Universities, has been given a share in a £36 million fund to develop projects aimed at improving people's lives through digital technology.
Nottingham's Dr Sarah Sharples told the Press Association that the mobile technology needed to make the scheme work was already in use, but that the process of requesting a lift could be made much more accessible.
"This could revolutionise the way people go about their everyday lives," she added.
