eBike technology explained

Hey everyone!

I've been diving deeper into the tech side of my eBike lately, specifically how different motor types and battery chemistries impact performance and range. I've got a mid-drive commuter bike that I'm thinking of upgrading, and I'm curious about the real-world differences between, say, a geared hub motor vs. a direct drive, or even the pros and cons of different battery cell types beyond just capacity. What are some of the more advanced tech aspects you've tinkered with or researched that genuinely made a difference in your riding experience, especially for DIY builds or modifications? I'm trying to understand the "why" behind certain tech choices for folks who really push their bikes.