It could be because its instant light. Hence the joint word flashlight ;). Like flash memory, instant.

The word torch to me makes me think some type of open flame where as a flashlight i know is an electrical light.

Not saying one way is better than the other, its just interesting that the old world doesn't have an updated word to distinguish electrical light.

I think its kinda cool that the UK still calls em torches, makes it feel more medieval!

If flash is supposed to mean instant or quick in this case then you could call any electrical light with a switch a flashlight. Might as well have just called it a handlight. Still makes more sense.

Americans call their national game football when clearly that's utter nonsense and it should be called handegg.

Torch wins.