eBike technology explained

Hey everyone!

I'm diving deep into the world of eBikes as I'm looking to upgrade soon, and I keep seeing all these different tech terms thrown around – torque sensors, cadence sensors, hub motors, mid-drives, different battery chemistries, etc. It's a bit overwhelming trying to figure out what's best for my daily commute (about 15 miles round trip, mostly flat with a few small hills).

Could someone break down the really important tech differences for a potential buyer? What should I prioritize understanding when looking at specs, and what makes a real-world difference in ride feel and longevity, especially for a commuter eBike? Would love to hear your experiences!